ciclopirox

Ciclopirox is a broad-spectrum topical antifungal agent used to treat mild to moderate fungal infections of the skin and nails. It is indicated for conditions such as onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea corporis (ringworm of the body), tinea cruris (jock itch), seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, and cutaneous candidiasis. Ciclopirox acts primarily by chelating polyvalent cations like Fe3+ and Al3+, which inhibits metal-dependent enzymes responsible for peroxide degradation within fungal cells. This disrupts essential cellular processes including mitochondrial electron transport and energy production. Unlike azole antifungals that inhibit sterol synthesis in fungal membranes, ciclopirox’s unique mechanism also imparts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis through cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase inhibition[4][6][8]. It is available in various topical formulations including creams, gels, lotions, shampoos for scalp use, and nail lacquers[3][5].

Brand names

CiclodanLoproxCNL8 NailCNL-8 NailCNL 8 NailPedipirox-4Pedipirox4Pedipirox 4Penlac Nail LacquerLoprox TSCiclodan Kit

Other names

ciclopirox