Penlac

Generic name: Ciclopirox

What is Penlac?

Penlac is a nail lacquer used in the treatment of nail infections caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum (ringworm of the nails). It is prescribed only if the pale semicircle at the base of the nail is free of infection. It is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes professional removal of the unattached infected nails as frequently as monthly.

What is the most important information I should know about Penlac?

It can take 6 months of daily Penlac application and periodic nail removal by a healthcare professional before symptoms begin to abate. Treatment typically lasts up to 48 weeks, and the infected nails may not be completely clear when your treatment is finished.

Use Penlac nail lacquer on nails and immediately surrounding skin only. Penlac nail lacquer is not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use.

Do not use nail polish or other nail cosmetic products on the treated nails.

Avoid use near heat or open flame; the product is flammable.

Inform a healthcare professional if you have diabetes or problems with numbness in your toes or fingers.

Who should not take Penlac?

Do not take Penlac if you are allergic to the medication or any or its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Penlac?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Penlac. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes; problems with numbness in your toes or fingers; or if you are immunosuppressed (for example, if you have received an organ transplant or if you have AIDS).

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Apply once daily at bedtime, or eight hours before washing, to the entire surface of all infected nails.

How should I take Penlac?

Before starting treatment, remove any loose nail material with clippers or a file. Brush Penlac evenly over the entire surface of all affected nails once daily, preferably at bedtime. Where possible, also apply the lacquer to the underside of the nail and the skin beneath. Allow the lacquer to dry for 30 seconds before putting on socks or stockings. Wait 8 hours before taking a bath or shower.

Daily applications of the nail lacquer should be made over the previous coat and removed with alcohol every 7 days. When removing Penlac from the nail (using an emery board), file any loose nail material and trim away as much of the damaged nail as possible. Continue this cycle throughout the duration of therapy.

What should I avoid while taking Penlac?

Keep Penlac away from the eyes and mucous membranes. Avoid contact with any skin outside the immediate area of the nail. Penlac is for external use only.

Do not use nail polish or other cosmetic nail products on the treated nails.

Avoid using Penlac near heat or open flame; it is flammable.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Penlac?

If Penlac is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Penlac with oral antifungal medications such as griseofulvin, terbinafine, and itraconazole.

What are the possible side effects of Penlac?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: rash or redness around the nail, change in shape of nail, discoloration, ingrown toenail, blistering, burning, oozing of the treated area

Can I receive Penlac if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Penlac during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Penlac?

If you miss a dose of Penlac Solution and you are using it daily at bedtime, skip the missed dose. Do not use the medicine the following morning. If you do not use the dose at bedtime and you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.

How should I store Penlac?

Store Penlac Solution at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Protect from light. Keep away from heat and flame. Keep Penlac Solution out of the reach of children.