Ciclopirox

( Penlac )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Dec 05, 2023

Directions


How To Use Ciclopirox

You should apply ciclopirox topical solution to the affected nails and the skin immediately surrounding the infected nails once a day, preferably at bedtime. 

Read the package insert and prescription label carefully, and use ciclopirox nail lacquer as prescribed. Do not change the dose or dosing frequency without talking to your doctor.

Before starting treatment with ciclopirox topical solution, use nail clippers to trim the affected nail and remove all loose nail material. Continue doing this weekly during treatment. Your doctor will also trim your nails every month. Do not apply nail polish or other nail cosmetic products on treated nails. 

Make sure the ciclopirox topical solution does not get on any other part of your body, especially your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. This medicine is for external use only. 

Keep the treated nails dry (do not shower, bathe, or swim for 8 hours after application of ciclopirox topical solution). 

This medication is flammable - keep it away from an open flame and heat source such as a cigarette. 

Here is a step-by-step guide to using ciclopirox topical solution:

  1. Trim your nails before starting treatment.
  2. Apply ciclopirox topical solution using the applicator brush that comes with the medicine. Apply the medicine evenly to the entire nail plate of all infected nails, including the skin immediately surrounding the nail and the underside of the nail.
  3. Allow the solution to dry for around 30 seconds before putting on socks and shoes.
  4. Apply the next dose of ciclopirox topical solution over any remaining medication.
  5. Once a week, remove all the ciclopirox from the damaged nail with a piece of cotton soaked in rubbing alcohol. Trim as much of the infected nail as possible using nail clippers, nail files, or scissors. 

It can take 24 weeks (6 months) of regular use of ciclopirox to notice an initial improvement in your nails. This medicine may not completely cure your nail fungus. Up to 48 weeks of daily application of ciclopirox topical solution (8% nail lacquer) along with monthly professional removal of loose nail material (unattached, infected nails) is considered to be the full treatment of nail fungus to achieve a nearly clear or completely clear nail (10% or less residual involvement).

Missed dose: If you miss a dose of ciclopirox, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed one and apply the next dose according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed application.

Storage: Store ciclopirox at room temperature (between 15-30° C or 59-86° F) away from moisture, heat, and direct light in its original container, tightly closed. Do not store medications in the bathroom where they can be exposed to moisture and heat. Keep all medications safely out of reach of children and pets.

Unused medicine: Unused ciclopirox topical solution should be disposed of in a way that other people, children, and pets cannot get to them. Do not throw ciclopirox in the trash. The best way to dispose of expired or unneeded ciclopirox is through a drug take-back program. Learn more about proper medication disposal

NOTEThis sheet is a summary and may not contain all possible drug information on ciclopirox. The information contained here may not be up-to-date. This sheet is for information purposes only. If you have questions about ciclopirox, talk to your doctor for medical advice.


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