What is Ciclopirox?
Ciclopirox is a sythetic antifungal solution.
What is Ciclopirox Used For?
Ciclopirox solution is commonly used to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails. It works by inhibiting the growth of nail fungus.
How To Use Ciclopirox
The following is a best practice guide to using ciclopirox to treat fungal infections in nails. You should always consult a doctor or other qualified medical practitioner before starting any treatment.
Ciclopirox (sometimes obtained under its brand name of Penlac® Nail Lacquer) comes as a solution ready to apply to nails and the skin immediately surrounding and beneath the nails. It is usual to apply the solution once a day. To help you remember to use ciclopirox, try to apply it around the same time every day. Making it part of your bedtime routine may help here. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use ciclopirox exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Ciclopirox is used to improve the condition of nails, but it should be noted that is may not completely cure all nail fungus. It is also worth noting that it may take 6 months or longer before you notice that your nails are getting better. Continue to use ciclopirox daily as directed. Do not stop using ciclopirox without talking to your doctor.
Ciclopirox topical solution will work best if you trim your nails regularly during your treatment. You should remove all loose nail or nail material using a nail clipper or nail file before you begin treatment and every week during your treatment. Your doctor will show you how to do this. Your doctor will also normally trim your nails once each month during your treatment as part of a checkup to see how the solution is performing.
Only apply ciclopirox topical solution to your nails and the skin under and around your nails. Be careful not to get the solution on any other areas of the skin or parts of your body, especially in or near your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina.
- Do not use nail polish or other nail cosmetic products on nails treated with ciclopirox topical solution.
- Do not take a bath, shower, or swim for at least 8 hours after applying ciclopirox topical solution.
Ciclopirox Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Make sure you have trimmed your nails properly before your first treatment.
- Use the applicator brush attached to the bottle cap to apply ciclopirox topical solution evenly to all affected nails. Also apply the solution to the underside of the nail and the skin beneath the tip of your nail it if you can reach these areas.
- Wipe any residue off the bottle cap and neck and replace the cap tightly on the bottle.
- Let the solution dry for about 30 seconds before you put on socks or stockings.
- When it is time for your next dose, apply ciclopirox topical solution over the medication that is already on your nails.
- Weekly, remove all the ciclopirox from your nail(s) with a cotton square or tissue soaked with rubbing alcohol. Then, remove as much of the damaged nail as possible using nail scissors, nail clippers or a nail files.
For more information about ciclopirix contact your doctor, pharmacist or health clinic.