Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) are common, and unfortunately, they can be stubborn to treat. No one wants to deal with discolored, thickened, or brittle nails, so it’s natural to look for a solution that works.
Ciclopirox is a prescription antifungal medication often prescribed as a topical treatment for nail fungus. You can find it in different forms, like topical solutions and nail lacquers. Ciclopirox works by interfering with the fungus’s ability to grow and thrive, with the goal of clearing up the infection over time.
But how effective is ciclopirox for nail fungus, really? This article takes a closer look at ciclopirox, discussing how it’s used, its potential benefits, where it falls short, and what side effects you might encounter. Let’s dive in and see if ciclopirox is the right solution for your fungal nail woes.
What is ciclopirox, and how does it work?
Ciclopirox is a man-made antifungal medication that works against a broad range of fungi.
It stops fungi from growing by interfering with how they create DNA, RNA, and proteins. Fungi need those things to survive and multiply, so ciclopirox essentially cuts off their supply chain.
You can find ciclopirox in a few different forms:
- Topical solution. This is usually applied to the infected nail and the skin around it.
- Nail lacquer. Nail lacquer is like a nail polish that delivers the medication right to the nail.
- Other formulations. Ciclopirox also comes as a cream, gel, lotion, and shampoo.
How to use ciclopirox for nail fungus
If you’re ready to try ciclopirox to treat your nail fungus, here’s how to use it.
Before you begin
It’s important to trim your nails regularly while you’re treating the fungus. Trimming helps remove any loose nail material and can help the medication reach the infected area.
A doctor, podiatrist, or other health professional may also remove any unattached, infected nails.
How to apply the medication
Follow these steps when you apply ciclopirox:
- Apply the medication to the affected nail and to the skin around the nail, up to 5mm (about 1/4 inch) from the nail.
- Apply the medication as directed, usually once a day just before bedtime.
- Let the medication dry completely before you put on socks or stockings.
- Don’t wash the treated area for at least eight hours after you apply the medication.
How long to use it
It can take up to six months or even longer to see improvement with ciclopirox. Don’t get discouraged!
Continue treatment even if you think your symptoms are improving. If you stop too soon, the infection can come back.
How well does ciclopirox work?
Ciclopirox is an antifungal medication used to treat mild to moderate nail fungus. It comes as a topical solution that you paint onto your nails daily.
Clinical studies
Clinical trials have evaluated ciclopirox’s ability to combat nail fungus. If you’re exploring other potential solutions, you might also want to consider whether Lakesia may be your solution. These studies look at how well ciclopirox works, how many people participated, and how the results were measured. The studies compare how well ciclopirox works compared to a placebo or other treatments.
The studies show that ciclopirox works better for mild to moderate infections. Consistency is key. To get the best results, you have to apply the solution to your nails every day.
How well the medication can penetrate the nail also matters. The better it gets into the nail, the better it works.
Limitations
Ciclopirox doesn’t cure nail fungus as often as oral medications do. It also takes longer to work, and it may not be effective for severe infections or infections that are deeply embedded in the nail.
Potential side effects and precautions
Like any medication, ciclopirox can cause side effects. For more information, you can read about common and rare ciclopirox side effects and how to manage them.
Common side effects
Some people may experience:
- Redness, itching, burning, or irritation where the medicine is applied
- Nail discoloration or changes in the way the nail looks
Serious side effects
More serious side effects are rare, but you should be aware of them. Contact your doctor right away if you experience:
- Blistering, swelling, or oozing at the application site
- An allergic reaction, such as a rash, itching, or swelling
Precautions
Before using ciclopirox, keep these precautions in mind:
- Avoid getting the medication in your eyes or other mucous membranes (such as your nose or mouth).
- Use the medication cautiously if you have diabetes or numbness in your fingers or toes.
- Tell your doctor about any other health conditions you have and any allergies you have.
- Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
How does ciclopirox compare to other treatments?
You have choices when it comes to treating nail fungus.
Oral antifungal medications
For example, your doctor may recommend oral medications such as terbinafine and itraconazole. These medications tend to have better cure rates than ciclopirox, but they also carry a risk of more serious side effects, like liver damage and drug interactions.
Topical alternatives
You may also be able to use another topical treatment, such as efinaconazole and tavaborole. If you’re considering another topical option, you might want to learn how long a bottle of Jublia lasts. Your doctor can explain how the effectiveness, application, and side effects of these medications compare to ciclopirox.
Combination therapy
Sometimes, health professionals recommend a combination of treatments. In some cases, this means using ciclopirox along with another topical or oral medication. Talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of combination therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does ciclopirox work on toenail fungus?
Ciclopirox is a slow-acting treatment. You won’t see immediate results. Improvement typically becomes noticeable after several months of consistent use, as the healthy nail gradually grows in, replacing the infected portion.
Why is toenail fungus so hard to get rid of?
Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to eradicate because the infection resides deep within the nail bed. This location makes it challenging for topical treatments to penetrate and reach the fungus effectively. The slow growth of nails also contributes to the extended treatment duration.
How much is ciclopirox without insurance?
The cost of ciclopirox without insurance varies depending on the formulation (solution or lacquer) and the pharmacy. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for a bottle. Shopping around and using prescription discount cards can help lower the price.
What is the success rate of ciclopirox for nail fungus?
Ciclopirox has a relatively modest success rate compared to oral antifungal medications. Studies show complete cure rates ranging from 5.5% to 8.5% after 48 weeks of treatment. It’s often more effective for mild to moderate cases of nail fungus.
How long does it take for ciclopirox to cure nail fungus?
Ciclopirox treatment typically lasts for several months, often up to 48 weeks (about a year). Even with consistent application, it may take this long for a completely healthy nail to grow in and replace the infected nail. Patience and adherence to the treatment regimen are crucial.
In Summary
Ciclopirox can be effective for treating mild to moderate nail infections, especially when you use it as directed and take good care of your nails. However, it’s important to remember that treating nail fungus takes time and that you have to stick to the instructions to get the best results.
The best way to treat a fungal nail infection is to talk with your doctor. They can help you decide on the right treatment plan based on how serious your infection is and other things about your health.