Key takeaways
Itraconazole (Sporanox) and ketoconazole (Nizoral) are both antifungal medications, but they are used in different ways and for different types of infections. Itraconazole (Sporanox) is availible as both a capsule and oral solution used to treat fungal infections in the mouth and throat, such as thrush, and is typically taken on an empty stomach. It is not a first-choice treatment and is usually prescribed after other antifungals have been tried. On the other hand, ketoconazole (Nizoral) is a topical cream used to treat various fungal skin infections, including ringworm, jock itch, and athlete's foot. It is applied directly to the skin and has fewer side effects compared to itraconazole. While itraconazole can cause serious heart and liver problems, ketoconazole cream mainly causes mild skin irritation. Additionally, ketoconazole cream is not approved for use in children and is only available by prescription, whereas itraconazole is also available as a lower-cost generic. Both medications require you to continue using them for the full prescribed duration to prevent the infection from returning.
