This medication is used to treat fungal skin infections
such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. This medication is also
used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a
fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the
neck, chest, arms, or legs. Ciclopirox is an antifungal medication that
works by stopping the growth of fungus.
Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and
thoroughly dry the area to be treated. Apply a thin layer of the medication
on and around the affected area and gently rub into the skin as directed by
your doctor, usually twice daily. Wash your hands after using unless the
area being treated includes the hands. Do not wrap, cover, or bandage the
area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Do not apply the medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth,
or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, 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.
Continue to use this medication for the full time
prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the
medication too early may result in a return of the
infection.
Your condition should start to get better within the
first week of treatment. Tell your doctor if your condition gets worse or
if it does not get better after 2 weeks for pityriasis and after 4 weeks
for other fungal skin infections.
Burning, redness, or itching at the application site may
occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- blistering/swelling/oozing at the application site
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using ciclopirox, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctors or dentist
about all the products you use (including prescription drugs,
nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another skin infection unless told
to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that
case.
If you are treating athlete's foot, make sure to wear
well-fitting, ventilated shoes. Also, change socks at least once
daily.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away
from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.