Fungal infections are really common, and they can happen just about anywhere on your body. Fortunately, many of these infections respond to topical antifungal medications you can apply directly to your skin.
Two common topical antifungals are ciclopirox and clotrimazole. Both of these medications can treat a range of fungal infections.
This article will compare ciclopirox vs clotrimazole, outlining their similarities and differences.
What is ciclopirox?
Ciclopirox olamine is a lab-created antifungal medicine that knocks out a wide range of fungi that can grow on your skin, including yeasts and molds. It can also fight some bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Ciclopirox works by disrupting the way nutrients pass through the cell membrane of a fungus.
Doctors prescribe ciclopirox to treat fungal infections of the skin and nails, such as, and sometimes other medications like ketoconazole for toenail fungus might be considered:
- Doctors prescribe ciclopirox to treat fungal infections of the skin and nails, such as:
- Onychomycosis (nail fungus)
- Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot)
- Tinea corporis (ringworm)
- Tinea cruris (jock itch)
- Tinea versicolor
- Seborrheic dermatitis
You can only get ciclopirox with a prescription from your doctor. It comes as a cream, a lotion, or a nail lacquer.
What is clotrimazole?
Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication. It belongs to the imidazole class of antifungals.
How it works
Clotrimazole stops fungi from being able to produce ergosterol, which is an important building block for fungal cell membranes.
Conditions treated
Clotrimazole is effective against many kinds of fungi. You can use clotrimazole to treat:
- Athlete’s foot
- Ringworm
- Jock itch
- Cutaneous candidiasis
- Vaginal yeast infections
How to get it
You can buy clotrimazole creams, lotions, and solutions either over the counter or with a prescription from your doctor; other options, such as bifonazole, are also available.
Which one works better?
Clinical studies have looked at how well ciclopirox and clotrimazole treat athlete’s foot. For example, one study showed that ciclopirox olamine 1% cream worked better than 1% clotrimazole cream. Ciclopirox had better rates of curing the infection.
Other studies might show different results, depending on the exact infection or the way the medicine is formulated.
Interestingly, patients who have used clotrimazole rate it a bit higher (8.4/10) than those who’ve used ciclopirox (7.3/10). Plus, more people give clotrimazole positive reviews (82%) than ciclopirox (71%).
Both medicines are usually well-tolerated. Some people have mild skin irritation, burning, or itching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t over 60s take fluconazole?
While fluconazole can be prescribed to those over 60, it’s used with caution. Older adults are often more susceptible to side effects and drug interactions. Careful evaluation of kidney and liver function is essential before prescribing fluconazole to this age group. Alternative antifungals might be considered first.
What is the rule of 2 in tinea?
The “rule of 2” in tinea (ringworm) generally refers to treatment duration. It often means continuing topical antifungal treatment, like ciclopirox or clotrimazole, for two weeks after the rash has cleared to ensure complete eradication of the fungus and prevent recurrence.
Why is my fungal infection not going away?
Several reasons could explain a persistent fungal infection: incorrect diagnosis, resistance to the antifungal medication, incomplete treatment duration, reinfection, underlying health conditions weakening your immune system, or poor hygiene practices. Consult your doctor for proper evaluation and management.
Are clotrimazole and ciclopirox the same?
No, clotrimazole and ciclopirox are different antifungal medications. Both are used topically to treat fungal infections, but they belong to different drug classes and have slightly different mechanisms of action. Ciclopirox also possesses some anti-inflammatory properties.
Is there a stronger antifungal than clotrimazole?
Yes, there are several stronger antifungals than clotrimazole. The “strength” depends on the specific fungus being targeted. For example, oral antifungals like fluconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine are often prescribed for more severe or resistant infections. Ciclopirox is also considered a broad spectrum antifungal.
Putting It All Together
Ciclopirox and clotrimazole both treat fungal infections, but they aren’t exactly the same. You need a prescription for ciclopirox, but you can buy clotrimazole over the counter.
The best antifungal medication for you will depend on the type of infection you have, your personal health, and other factors. Be sure to talk with a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment recommendations.