What is Ciclopirox: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Ciclopirox overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Ciclodan, Loprox, Penlac Nail Lacquer, Penlac Nail Lacquer, Loprox, Penlac Nail Lacquer, Penlac, Penlac Nail Lacquer, Penlac Nail Lacquer

Generic Names:

  • Ciclopirox

Uses:

  • Treats skin infections caused by fungus, such as ringworm, athlete's foot, or dandruff. Belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antifungal

Forms:

  • Cream, Gel/Jelly, Liquid, Lotion, Shampoo, Shampoo, Kit

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What form(s) does Ciclopirox come in

  • Cream

  • Gel/Jelly

  • Liquid

  • Lotion

  • Shampoo

  • Shampoo

  • Kit

What are common Ciclopirox doses?

  • Bottle 120ML of 1%

  • Bottle 6.5999999046325684ML of 8%

  • Tube 30GM of 0.77%

  • Tube 45GM of 0.77%

  • Tube 100GM of 0.77%

Common Ciclopirox prescriptions

  • Ciclopirox
    120ml of 1% bottle

  • Ciclopirox
    6.6ml of 8% bottle

  • Ciclopirox
    100gm of 0.77% tube

  • Ciclopirox
    100gm of 0.77% tube of gel

  • Ciclopirox
    30gm of 0.77% tube of gel

  • Ciclopirox
    45gm of 0.77% tube of gel

How to take Ciclopirox

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Wash your hands before and after using the cream, gel, or ointment.

  • Use this medicine only on the skin, scalp, fingernails, or toenails. Do not get any in your eyes, mouth, or vagina. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.

  • Use enough ciclopirox to cover the infected area and the skin around it. Rub the cream, gel, or ointment in gently. Apply the nail lacquer using the brush that came with your medicine.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • If you are using ciclopirox on the groin (crotch) area, wear loose cotton underwear. You may use talcum powder on your skin between the times you use ciclopirox.

  • The nail lacquer is flammable. Do not use it near heat or an open flame.

  • You may need to use the nail lacquer for up to 6 months before seeing any improvement in your nail infection. It may take up to one year of treatment for your nails to clear completely.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • If you are using ciclopirox on your feet, dry them carefully, especially between the toes, after bathing. If you cannot go barefoot, wear clean cotton socks. Avoid socks made from wool, rayon, or nylon. Wear sandals or shoes that allow air to get to your feet. Use talcum powder between your toes and sprinkle some in your socks and shoes once or twice daily.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Use enough ciclopirox to cover the infected area and the skin around it. Rub the cream, gel, or ointment in gently. Apply the nail lacquer using the brush that came with your medicine.

  • The nail lacquer is flammable. Do not use it near heat or an open flame.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • If you are using ciclopirox on your feet, dry them carefully, especially between the toes, after bathing. If you cannot go barefoot, wear clean cotton socks. Avoid socks made from wool, rayon, or nylon. Wear sandals or shoes that allow air to get to your feet. Use talcum powder between your toes and sprinkle some in your socks and shoes once or twice daily.

  • Wash your hands before and after using the cream, gel, or ointment.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Use this medicine only on the skin, scalp, fingernails, or toenails. Do not get any in your eyes, mouth, or vagina. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.

  • You may need to use the nail lacquer for up to 6 months before seeing any improvement in your nail infection. It may take up to one year of treatment for your nails to clear completely.

  • If you are using ciclopirox on the groin (crotch) area, wear loose cotton underwear. You may use talcum powder on your skin between the times you use ciclopirox.

What to do if you miss a dose of Ciclopirox

  • Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Ciclopirox contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ciclopirox.

Ciclopirox warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes.

  • The shampoo form of this medicine may cause hair discoloration if you have a light hair color. Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Ciclopirox interactions

  • Check with your doctor before using any other skin product (prescription or non-prescription) on the same area of the skin you are treating with ciclopirox.

  • Do not use nail polish or other nail cosmetics while using this medicine on your fingernails or toenails.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Ciclopirox side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Fast heartbeat.

  • Swollen, burning, blistering, or peeling skin.

  • Severe burning, redness, swelling, or oozing of skin around nails.

  • Hives, severe itching.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild, temporary stinging.

  • Headache.