Key takeaways
Ketoconazole (Nizoral) and econazole (Ecoza) are both topical antifungal medications used to treat similar fungal skin infections like ringworm, jock itch, and athlete's foot. However, there are some differences between the two. Ketoconazole is available in multiple forms, including cream, gel, foam, and shampoo, while econazole is available as a cream and foam. Ketoconazole is also used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, a condition econazole is not approved to treat. For athlete's foot, ketoconazole cream typically requires a 6-week treatment, whereas econazole cream usually needs 4 weeks. Both medications are generally well-tolerated, but econazole might raise the risk of bleeding with warfarin (Coumadin) and ketoconazole may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
