Description
Penlac Nail Lacquer (Ciclopirox) is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails. Penlac works by killing the fungus or stopping its growth on the affected areas. The treatment plan may involve the removal of the unattached, infected nail by a healthcare professional on a monthly basis.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C12H17NO2 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
5% with prolonged use |
Legal status |
Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Ciclopirox |
Elimination half-life |
1.7 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
Cilopirox 8% |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Penlac Nail Lacquer |
Protein binding |
94 to 97% |
PubChem CID |
2749 |
MedlinePlus |
a604021 |
ChEBI |
453011 |
ATC code |
D01AE14 |
DrugBank |
DB01188 |
KEGG |
D03488 |
Routes of administration |
Topical |
Directions
The Penlac Nail Lacquer 8% topical solution is typically applied once daily, ideally before bedtime or eight hours before washing. Before your initial application and weekly thereafter, remove any loose nail material with an emery board and clean off old lacquer layers using alcohol.
Use the provided applicator brush to apply the lacquer evenly over the affected nail plate, as well as any exposed nail bed and skin under the nail edge (hyponychium) if possible. Daily layers should be applied over the previous ones and removed with alcohol every seven days. The length and effectiveness of treatment may vary. Consult your healthcare provider for instructions.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in this medication is ciclopirox.
Contraindications
Avoid using Penlac Nail Lacquer if you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Ciclopirox or any of the ingredients in the medication.
Cautions
- Before using Penlac, you may want to be aware of some precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Be sure to inform your doctor about:
- Any medications you take, including anticonvulsants and corticosteroids
- Any medical conditions you have, such as insulin-dependent diabetes and immunosuppression
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Penlac during pregnancy and lactation is not well established
- Penlac is for external use only, and contact should be restricted to the immediate area surrounding the treated nails. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- During treatment, monthly removal of the unattached, infected nail by a healthcare professional is necessary. If you have diabetes or experience numbness in your toes or fingers, consult your healthcare provider before attempting any nail trimming.
- Nail polish or other nail cosmetic products should not be used on the treated nails.
- Be cautious with Penlac near heat or open flame as the product is flammable.
Side Effects
Penlac may cause side effects in some individuals who use it. Common side effects may include burning, itching, redness, and swelling around the treated area. These symptoms are usually mild and may go away as the body adjusts to the medication. Other minor side effects, such as irritation or discomfort, may occur but generally do not require medical attention.
Some people may experience more serious side effects that necessitate immediate medical attention. Rare but severe reactions can include symptoms like skin blisters, hives, or worsening of the fungal infection. If you or someone you know is using Penlac Nail Lacquer and encounters any of these severe side effects, seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.
References:
Penlac Nail Lacquer (Ciclopirox) Drug Label. Berwyn, PA: Dermik Laboratories; 2003.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 5483