Penlac Nail Lacquer Consumer Information

Penlac Nail Lacquer

Generic Name: ciclopirox topical (sye kloe PEER ox)
Brand Names: Loprox, Penlac Nail Lacquer

What is Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

Ciclopirox is an antifungal medication. Ciclopirox topical prevents fungus from growing.

Ciclopirox topical cream and lotion formulations are used to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections. Ciclopirox shampoo is used to treat seborrheic dermatitis (inflammatory skin condition) of the scalp. Ciclopirox topical nail lacquer is used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails.

Ciclopirox topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

Use ciclopirox topical nail lacquer on nails and immediately surrounding skin only.

Ciclopirox topical nail lacquer is flammable, keep it away from heat and flame.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

Do not use ciclopirox topical if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

Before using ciclopirox topical, tell your doctor if you

• have diabetes;

• are immunosuppressed (e.g., have received an organ transplant or have AIDS);

• take medication to control epilepsy or another seizure disorder;

• use a topical corticosteroid on a regular basis; or

• use a steroid inhaler on a regular basis.

You may not be able to use ciclopirox topical nail lacquer or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment .

How should I use Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

To use ciclopirox topical cream or lotion:

• Wash your hands before and after using this medication, unless you are using ciclopirox topical to treat a hand condition.

• Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of the cream (usually twice daily) for 2 to 4 weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate (occlusive dressings) on areas treated with ciclopirox cream or lotion, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear loose-fitting clothing (preferably cotton).

• If the infection does not clear up in 4 weeks, or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.

To use ciclopirox shampoo:

• Wet the hair and apply approximately 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of the shampoo to the scalp. Up to 2 teaspoons (10 mL) may be used for long hair. Lather and leave on the hair and scalp for 3 minutes. A timer may be used. Rinse off the shampoo after 3 minutes have passed.

• Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and inside of the mouth.

• Treatment should be repeated twice per week for 4 weeks, with a minimum of 3 days between applications. If no improvement is seen after 4 weeks of treatment, contact your doctor.

To use ciclopirox topical nail lacquer:

• Remove any loose nail or nail material using nail clippers or a nail file.

• Apply ciclopirox topical nail lacquer once daily (preferably at bedtime) to all affected nails with the applicator brush provided. Apply the lacquer evenly over the entire nail. Where possible, apply the nail laquer to the underside of the nail and to the skin beneath it. Allow the lacquer to dry (approximately 30 seconds) before putting on socks or stockings. After applying the medication, wait 8 hours before taking a bath or shower.

• Apply ciclopirox topical nail lacquer daily over the previous coat. Once a week, remove ciclopirox topical nail lacquer with alcohol. Remove as much as possible of the damaged nail using nail clippers or nail a file.

• Use ciclopirox topical nail lacquer on nails and immediately surrounding skin only. Avoid contact with other areas.

• Treatment with ciclopirox topical nail lacquer may require six months or more before initial improvement of symptoms is noticed. Up to 48 weeks of daily application of the nail lacquer, monthly removal of the unattached infected nail by a health care professional, and weekly trimming by the patient may be required for complete treatment.

• To prevent the screw cap from sticking to the bottle, do not allow the solution to get into the bottle treads. To prevent the solution from drying out, close the bottle tightly after every use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the regular amount of ciclopirox topical. Do not use a double dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of ciclopirox topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used or that ciclopirox topical has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

What should I avoid while using Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn't allow air circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.

Do not use nail polish, artificial nails, or other cosmetic nail products on the nails treated with ciclopirox topical nail lacquer.

Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical) side effects

Serious side effects of ciclopirox topical use are not expected to occur. Stop using ciclopirox topical and contact your doctor if you experience unusual or severe itching, redness, burning, dryness, or irritation of the skin or discoloration or other changes in the nails.

Mild burning, itching, or redness may occur with use of ciclopirox topical shampoo.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Penlac Nail Lacquer (ciclopirox topical)?

Do not use nail polish, artificial nails, or other cosmetic nail products on the nails treated with ciclopirox topical nail lacquer.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with ciclopirox topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.