Overview
Uses and benefits
Side effects
How to use
How drug works
Safety advice
Missed dose
All substitutes
Quick tips
Fact box
Patient concerns
FAQs

Author Details

Written By

Dr. Subita Alagh

BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Mekhala Chandra

MD, MBBS

Last updated

22 Sep 2025 | 02:38 PM (IST)

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Keto-Act-Z Soap

Prescription Required

Marketer

Remedial Healthcare

SALT COMPOSITION

Ketoconazole (1% w/w) + Zinc pyrithione (1% w/w)

Storage

Store below 30°C

View available alternative with same salt composition

Product introduction

Keto-Act-Z Soap is a combination of two antifungal medicines that effectively treat fungal skin infections and dandruff. It kills the fungi that cause the infection and relieves itching and irritation.

Keto-Act-Z Soap is only meant for external use and should be used as your doctor advises. A thin layer of the medicine should be applied only to the affected areas of the skin with clean and dry hands. Wash your hands before and after the application of the medicine. If it gets into your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with water. It may take several days to weeks for your symptoms to improve, but you should keep using this medicine regularly. The course of the treatment should be completed to ensure better efficacy of the medicine.

Common side effects of Keto-Act-Z Soap include a burning sensation, redness, and itching of the skin. Consult your doctor if they persist or become bothersome. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own. If the irritation persists or worsens, stop using it and consult a doctor.

Before using Keto-Act-Z Soap, check for allergies to its ingredients and avoid it if you have sensitive skin or open wounds. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use to make sure it is safe for them. Discontinue if irritation occurs and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Talk to your doctor before using it if you have recently used another medicine for dandruff.

Uses of Keto-Act-Z Soap

Benefits of Keto-Act-Z Soap

In Treatment of Dandruff

Keto-Act-Z Soap is used to control dandruff and gives relief from scaly, flaky, and itchy scalp. It stops the growth of fungus that causes dandruff. Regular use of Keto-Act-Z Soap protects your scalp and prevents dandruff. Gently massage your scalp with Keto-Act-Z Soap to loosen flakes. Make sure you complete the full course of treatment. This will ensure that the infection is completely cured and prevent it from returning.

In Treatment of Fungal skin infections

Keto-Act-Z Soap is used to treat and control fungal infections like athlete’s foot (infection between toes), jock itch (infection of the groin area), ringworm, and other fungal skin infections (candidiasis). Keep using the Keto-Act-Z Soap for as long as it is prescribed.

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Side effects of Keto-Act-Z Soap

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Keto-Act-Z

Burning sensation
Itching

How to use Keto-Act-Z Soap

Use it as advised by your doctor or check the label for directions before use.

How Keto-Act-Z Soap works

Keto-Act-Z Soap is a combination of two antifungal medicines: Ketoconazole and Zinc pyrithione. It works by destroying the cell membrane of fungi that cause dandruff. Ketoconazole works by breaking down the cell membrane of fungi, effectively killing them, while zinc pyrithione controls fungal growth and reduces irritation, redness, and flaking. Together, they combat fungal infections, soothe the affected area, and prevent recurrence, promoting healthier skin and scalp. Use as directed for best results.

Safety advice

Alcohol

No interaction found/established

Pregnancy

SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Keto-Act-Z Soap is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.

Breast feeding

SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Keto-Act-Z Soap is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.

Driving

No interaction found/established

Kidney

No interaction found/established

Liver

No interaction found/established

What if you forget to take Keto-Act-Z Soap?

If you miss a dose of Keto-Act-Z Soap, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.

All substitutes

For informational purposes only. Consult a doctor before taking any medicines.

No substitutes found for this medicine

Quick tips

Do not use this medicine more often or for longer than advised by your doctor.
Before each application, wash the affected area with soap and water and dry well.
Avoid getting it in the eyes, mouth, or nose. Rinse with cold water if you accidentally get it in these areas.
Stop using Keto-Act-Z Soap and inform your doctor if you notice any irritation or any other skin infection.
Inform your doctor if the treated skin area does not improve after 2-4 weeks of treatment.

Fact Box

Habit Forming

Therapeutic Class

DERMA

Patient concerns

I have some red colour marks on my hand or back Please tell me what was that or what i can do

Dr. Souvik Sardar

Dermatology

use keto cream-twice daily for 3wks

My son have a ringworm on his right hand

Dr. Souvik Sardar

Dermatology

Use keto or KZ cream - twice daily for 6wks minimum

What is Keto-Act-Z Soap used for?

Keto-Act-Z Soap is used to treat fungal infections and dandruff of the scalp. Keto-Act-Z Soap helps to kill fungi, prevents their growth, and minimizes irritation in the affected site.

How soon will I see results after using Keto-Act-Z Soap?

The exact time Keto-Act-Z Soap takes to show the result is not known. However, you may start notcing improvements in itching/flaking after a few uses, while full control over the condition may take up to a few weeks to months of regular prescribed use.

Does Keto-Act-Z Soap cause hair loss?

No, Keto-Act-Z Soap doesn't cause hair loss or hair fall. However, Keto-Act-Z Soap may cause excessive dryness that may lead to breakage, leading to hair loss or fall.

Is Keto-Act-Z Soap better than regular dandruff shampoo?

Keto-Act-Z Soap may be effective and potent for stubborn dandruff/fungal issues. You should consult your doctor for suitable medicine based on your condition and severity.

Can I stop using Keto-Act-Z Soap once the symptoms have gone?

It is advised to continue using Keto-Act-Z Soap for a few days after the disappearance of all signs and symptoms of fungal infection. The usual time duration is 3 -4 weeks, depending on the condition and its severity. However, in case you don't see any improvement in symptoms after 4 weeks of use, consult your doctor for reconsideration of diagnosis and treatment.

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Disclaimer:

Tata 1mg's sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover everything about particular health conditions, lab tests, medicines, all possible side effects, drug interactions, warnings, alerts, etc. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.

References

Ketoconazoe [EMC Label]. High Wycombe, Bucks: Janssen-Cilag Ltd.; 2019. [Accessed 29 Mar. 2019] (online) Available from:
Ketoconazole and Zinc Pyrithion (ZPTO) Lotion [Prescribing Information]. Ahmedabad, Gujarat: Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.; 2025. [Accessed 10 Mar. 2025](online) Available from: