Type of medicine: antifungal
Generic and brand names: ciclopirox, topical; ciclopirox cream; ciclopirox gel; ciclopirox suspension; Loprox Gel
This medicine is put on the skin to treat fungal infections. The gel form of this medicine is also used on the scalp to treat seborrheic dermatitis.
Before using this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not breast-feed while using this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.
Read the patient information sheet that comes in the medicine package. If you do not understand how and when to use this medicine, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to explain.
Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. Use it as long as directed, even if your symptoms improve. The infection may return if you stop using the medicine too soon.
Before you use this medicine on your skin, wash your skin with mild soap and warm water. Rinse and pat dry with a soft towel. Put a thin layer of medicine on the area where you need it. If you are applying the gel medicine to your scalp, massage it gently into the affected scalp area as directed by your healthcare provider. Using too much medicine or using it too often can increase the risk of side effects from absorption into your body. Do not put a tight bandage on the area.
If you have the topical suspension form of this medicine, shake well before using.
Keep this medicine away from your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If it gets in your eyes, flush them with water right away.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider.
An acute overdose of this medicine is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center at 800-222-1222.
Contact your healthcare provider if the area being treated looks more irritated (redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling, oozing) or if symptoms do not improve within 1 month.
Do not use other cosmetic products on the area where you put this medicine.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you are using this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Signs of increased irritation (redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling, oozing).
Other: Rash; minor itching, redness or irritation; dry skin; hair loss; headache.
No significant drug interactions have been reported. However, do not use other cosmetics or antifungal medicines while you are using this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
To protect the medicine from light, put the bottle back into the box after each use. Store the medicine (in the box) at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat and high humidity.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
