Clioquinol

Clioquinol is a synthetic small molecule belonging to the hydroxyquinoline class. It is primarily used as a topical antifungal and antibacterial agent for treating skin infections such as eczema, athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm[2][4][5]. Clioquinol acts as a broad-spectrum anti-infective with both antifungal and antiprotozoal properties[3][5]. Its mechanism of action includes chelation of zinc and copper ions—an activity that disrupts metal-dependent enzymes in pathogens—and possible inhibition of kappa-type opioid receptors[3][6][8]. Clioquinol has also been investigated for its potential in neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease) due to its ability to chelate metals implicated in amyloid plaque formation[6][8], and it has shown anticancer effects in preclinical prostate cancer models by acting as a zinc ionophore[5]. The drug was withdrawn from some markets due to concerns about neurotoxicity at high doses or prolonged use but remains available topically in certain regions.

Brand names

Entero-VioformVioformLocacorten VioformDermasorb AF Complete Kit

Other names

iodochlorhydroxyquin5-chloro-7-iodo-8-hydroxyquinoline