Compare To: LOPROX ? & PENLAC ?
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Ciclopirox is a synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal agent that inhibits the growth of dermatophytes, a type of fungus that grows on the skin, hair, and nails. Approved for use in the U.S. by the FDA in December, 1999.
USES: This medication is used to treat minor fungal and yeast skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm. This medication may not work well for infections on the nails, for areas of very thick skin (e.g., palms of hands or soles of feet), or for persistent or frequent infections. Oral drugs may be needed for these cases. Discuss with your doctor for more details. Ciclopirox is an antifungal agent that works by stopping the growth of fungus.
HOW TO USE: Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of the medication to the affected area and gently rub into the skin, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not cover or bandage the area unless told to do so by your doctor. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Avoid getting the medicine in your eyes, nose or mouth. If you do so, rinse with plenty of water. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. It may take one to two weeks of treatment to notice an improvement. Continue to use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may not cure the infection, allowing the fungus to return. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after two to four weeks of treatment.
SIDE EFFECTS: Itching, burning, stinging or redness may occur when first applied to the skin. These should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately if blistering, swelling or oozing occurs. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
STORAGE: Protect from light (store the bottle in the carton after each use). Topical Solution 8% should be stored at room temperature, 15-30�C (59-86�F). Avoid use or storage near heat or open flame as the product is flammable.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Penlac Topical Solution 8% is topical therapy without systemic side effects to treat finger or toenail fungus that does not involve the white portion of the nail (lunula) in persons with normal immune systems. In controlled clinical trials it was found to be safe and effective in treating nail fungus, with some patients experiencing resolution of the infection.
DOSING: Penlac Topical Solution 8% is applied once a day with an applicator brush to all affected nails and immediately adjacent skin. Daily applications should be made over the previous coat and removed every seven days. Up to 48 weeks of daily applications, weekly trimming by the patient, and monthly professional removal of the unattached, infected nail, is needed. Safety of use greater than 48 weeks has not been evaluated.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Use together with other medications for fungal infection is not recommended. Do not use nail polish or other cosmetic products on the treated nails.
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of Penlac Topical Solution 8% in pregnant women. Therefore, it can be used in pregnancy if the physician determines that it is needed.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether this drug is excreted in breast milk. Because of a potential for side effects in the nursing infant, the physician must weigh the potential benefits and possible risks before prescribing Penlac Topical Solution 8% for nursing mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: If rash, or itching occurs Penlac Topical Solution 8% should be discontinued. Skin burning may occur, though infrequently.
Avoid contact with the eyes and any other skin than that around the nail(s) being treated. Contact with the surrounding skin may produce mild, temporary irritation and redness.
It is critical that patients use Penlac Topical Solution 8% as a part of a comprehensive treatment program. This means that patients must be under the regular care of a healthcare professional and follow the guidelines for clean, dry, foot care maximize benefit and to prevent recurrence.
