Key takeaways
Ketoconazole cream and Cresemba (isavuconazonium) are both antifungal medications, but they are used for different types of fungal infections. Ketoconazole cream is a topical antifungal used to treat skin infections like ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot, tinea versicolor, seborrheic dermatitis, and skin yeast infections caused by *Candida*. It is applied directly to the skin and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, which means it has fewer side effects. Cresemba, on the other hand, is an azole antifungal available in oral and injectable forms, used to treat serious fungal infections like invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Cresemba is taken by mouth or through an IV, and it can cause more systemic side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and liver issues. Ketoconazole cream is available as a generic, while Cresemba is only available as a brand-name medication. Additionally, Cresemba can interact with other medications, including ketoconazole, and should be avoided during pregnancy.
