Products
Ciclopirox is commercially available in many countries as a nail polish, solution, vaginal suppository, cream, vaginal cream, and shampoo.
Structure and properties
Ciclopirox (C12H17NO2, Mr = 207.3 g/mol) exists as a white to yellowish white crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water. It is also present in drugs as ciclopiroxolamine, a white to pale yellow crystalline powder that is sparingly soluble in water. Olamine stands for 2-aminoethanol. Ciclopirox is a hydroxypyridone derivative.
Effects
Ciclopirox (ATC D01AE14 ) has antifungal (fungicidal) properties against dermatophytes, yeasts, molds, and filamentous fungi and is antibacterial against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory effects have been demonstrated. The effects are based, among other things, on the inhibition of the uptake of vital substances into the fungal cell. These include metal ions such as iron, aluminum and potassium, as well as phosphate. Ciclopirox may also be effective against fungal spores.
Indications
For the treatment of fungal infections of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes:
- Fungal skin infections (dermatophytoses).
- Pityriasis versicolor
- Vaginal mycosis (vaginal mycosis) with Candida fungi.
- Seborrheic dermatitis on the face or scalp.
- Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Dosage
The application depends on the disease to be treated. The drugs are administered exclusively topically (locally).
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Contact with the eyes
- Children, pregnancy and lactation: see the technical information.
For full precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are not known.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include local reactions at the site of application, such as burning, itching, redness, and rarely contact dermatitis. These may also be caused by the excipients. The drug should be discontinued if there is evidence of a hypersensitivity reaction.
