Penlac (Ciclopirox) – Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Penlac is a topical medication used for the treatment of fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails. It is also known by its generic name, ciclopirox. The medication is classified as an antifungal that works by killing the fungus that causes the infection. Uses Penlac is used for the treatment of fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis). It is primarily used for fungal infections that are caused by dermatophytes (a type of fungus that infects skin and nails). The medication is typically prescribed when other antifungal medications have failed to clear the infection. Dosage Penlac is only available in the form of a nail lacquer. The medication is applied to the infected nail(s) once daily. Before application, the affected nail(s) should be cleaned and any loose or diseased nail tissue removed. The nail should be filed down to produce a smooth surface. Once applied, the medication should be allowed to dry for at least 30 minutes before putting on any socks, shoes, or gloves. The duration of treatment with Penlac depends on the severity of the infection and the response to treatment. In most cases, treatment lasts for six months, but longer courses of treatment may be necessary. Demographic The use of Penlac is not recommended for children under the age of 10. The medication is typically prescribed to adults over the age of 18 who have a fungal nail infection that has not responded to other treatments. Side Effects The use of Penlac may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Side effects may include: • Skin irritation, redness, or itching at the site of application • Blistering, peeling, or cracking of the skin around the nail • Numbness or tingling of the fingers or toes • Swelling of the hands or feet • Cold sores or fever blisters • Rash or hives If any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience any other side effects not listed here, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Interactions Penlac may interact with other medications that you are taking. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements that you are taking before starting treatment with Penlac. Some medications that may interact with Penlac include: • Other topical medications for fungal infections • Oral antifungal medications • Corticosteroids • Immunosuppressive medications Generic Options Ciclopirox, the active ingredient in Penlac, is available in a generic form. The generic version of the medication is typically less expensive than the brand-name product. When prescribing medications, doctors may consider both the brand-name and generic options. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies or sensitivities that you have before taking any medication. In conclusion, Penlac is a topical medication used for the treatment of fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails. The medication is typically prescribed to adults over the age of 18 who have a fungal nail infection that has not responded to other treatments. The medication is available only in the form of a nail lacquer and is applied once daily. Side effects of Penlac may include skin irritation, redness, or itching at the site of application, blistering, peeling, or cracking of the skin around the nail, numbness or tingling of the fingers or toes, swelling of the hands or feet, cold sores or fever blisters, rash, or hives. It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements that you are taking before starting treatment with Penlac. Ciclopirox, the active ingredient in Penlac, is available in a generic form and is typically less expensive than the brand-name product.