Ciclopirox is an antifungal medication that prevents certain types of fungus from growing and spreading on the skin. It comes in cream, lotion, and lacquer formulations for use on the skin and in shampoos for use on the scalp.
The FDA has approved ciclopirox nail lacquer to treat fungal infections of the nails and fingernails (onychomycosis). It is also used to treat dandruff.
Product Description
Ciclopirox Nail Lacquer is used to treat fungal infections of the nails, known as onychomycosis. It is a broad spectrum antifungal that is effective against dermatophytes (fungi) that cause ringworm, tinea versicolor, and other fungal infections.
It contains ciclopirox 8%, which is a synthetic antifungal agent. It is intended for topical use on fingernails and toenails and immediately adjacent skin.
The nail lacquer formulation is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid. It is marketed in a 6.6 mL glass bottle with a screw cap that is fitted with an applicator brush.
This product is flammable, and should be stored in a locked cupboard at least one-and-a-half metres above the ground. This is to protect it from being accidentally opened or destroyed by children.
Ciclopirox is used in topical creams, gels, and ointments to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, yeast infection, and seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used in nail lacquer to treat fungal infections of the nails, including ringworm and tinea unguium.
Active Ingredients
Ciclopirox is an antifungal drug that works by preventing certain types of fungus from growing and reproducing. It is used to treat and prevent dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and nail fungus infections.
The active ingredient in this medication is ciclopirox, a hydroxy-pyridone that is chemically distinct from azoles or other antifungals. It is a highly effective and broad-spectrum antifungal that has been used for many years as a 1% strength cream and solution.
This medication is available in a clear, colourless-to-slightly-yellowish solution. Each gram of the solution contains 80 mg of ciclopirox.
In clinical studies, ciclopirox 8% HPCH was found to be more effective than water-insoluble ciclopirox 8% and amorolfine 5% commercial lacquers for the treatment of mild-to-moderate onychomycosis, as evidenced by higher complete cure, response and mycological cure rates. The use of a ciclopirox nail lacquer formulated with the patented HPCH drug formulation technology was also shown to improve nail permeation and penetration, thus resulting in increased efficacy.
Dosage
Ciclopirox Nail Lacquer is used as part of a treatment program for fungal infections of the nails (an infection that may cause discoloration, pain and splitting). It is in a group of medications called antifungals.
Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it than prescribed. It usually takes a week to a month before you start to feel better.
This medication should be applied to the nails and skin immediately surrounding and under them once a day, usually at bedtime. It should be applied in a thin layer and rubbed in gently.
In clinical studies, ciclopirox 8% HPCH was found to be more effective than water-insoluble reference lacquers in patients with mild-to-moderate onychomycosis. It also had higher complete cure, response and mycological cure rates than water-insoluble reference lacquers.
Side Effects
Ciclopirox is a drug used to treat a fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails. It is available in cream, gel, and nail lacquer formulations.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have allergies to other antifungal medications or if you have a history of kidney disease. Also, tell your doctor if you have diabetes or problems with numbness in your fingers or toes.
Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or how often you use it. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible.
To use this medicine, apply the medication to all infected nails, focusing on the skin right next to the nail. The medicine should reach the nail base and underside of the nail as well, if possible.
This medication is formulated with the patented HPCH drug formulation technology, which improves nail permeation and penetration of ciclopirox. In vitro studies showed that ciclopirox 8% HPCH exhibited faster and more effective permeation compared to water-insoluble reference lacquers.
