Ciclopirox skin cream, gel, lotion, or suspension
What is ciclopirox skin cream, gel, lotion, or suspension?
CICLOPIROX (Loprox®, Loprox TS®) is an antifungal drug. It is applied to the skin to treat ringworm of the body, foot (athlete’s foot), or groin (jock itch). It may also be used to treat ‘sun fungus’ (tinea versicolor) or Candida infections. Generic ciclopirox gel is not available. Generic ciclopirox topical suspension (lotion) and skin cream are available.
What should my health care professional know before I use ciclopirox?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- taking corticosteroid medication
- diabetes mellitus
- large areas of burned or damaged skin (skin abrasions)
- peripheral vascular disease or poor circulation
- an unusual or allergic reaction to ciclopirox, mineral oil, benzyl alcohol, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Ciclopirox skin cream, gel, lotion, or suspension is for use on the outer skin only; do not take by mouth or get into your eyes. Follow the directions on the prescription label exactly. Wash your hands before and after use. If treating infections on the hand, only wash hands before use. Shake the lotion or suspension well before applying. Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub in gently. Apply for the full course of treatment prescribed, even if you think the infection is getting better. Use at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not use this medicine for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or take extra doses without advice.
What drug(s) may interact with ciclopirox?
Other skin products may affect the action of ciclopirox. Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products you are using. Do not apply other skin preparations at the same skin area without the advice of your prescriber.
What side effects may I notice from using ciclopirox?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- swelling of the skin
- peeling or severe itching of the skin
- infection gets worse
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- reddened skin
- mild burning, stinging, itching, swelling, or other signs of skin irritation
What should I watch for while taking ciclopirox?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve within 2 to 4 weeks. It is important not to use more ciclopirox skin cream or lotion than prescribed. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly. If your skin infection returns after stopping this cream or lotion, contact your prescriber.
Do not use an airtight bandage to cover the affected area unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you to.
If you are using this cream for ‘jock itch’, do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic fibers such as rayon or nylon. Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear. Also dry the area completely after bathing. A bland, absorbent powder such as talcum powder or an antifungal powder (like tolnaftate) may be applied to the skin to keep it dry; apply the powder to the affected skin in between applications of ciclopirox cream or lotion.
If you are using this cream to treat for athlete’s foot, carefully dry the feet, especially between the toes, after bathing. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials such as rayon or nylon. Wear clean cotton socks and change them daily or more if your feet sweat frequently. Also, try wearing sandles or shoes that are well-ventilated. A bland, absorbent powder such as talcum powder or an antifungal powder (like tolnaftate) may be applied to the skin to keep it dry; apply the powder to the affected skin in between applications of ciclopirox cream or lotion.
Do not get this cream or lotion in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store the gel and cream between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Store the lotion and suspension between 41 and 77 degrees F (5 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
[ Last Revised: 4/18/2005 8:09:00 AM ]
NOTE: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.
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