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Topical Ciclopirox Olamine 1%: Revisiting a Unique Antifungal
Sidharth Sonthalia1, Mahima Agrawal2, V N Sehgal3
1Department of Dermatology and Dermatosurgery, Skinnocence, The Skin Clinic and Research Centre, Gurugram, Haryana, India.
Abstract:
The injudicious use of antifungals, indiscriminate use of corticosteroids for instant relief, persistence of predisposing factors like sweat retention and uncontrolled diabetes, and emerging resistance to antifungals across the globe have rendered the management of an erstwhile simple infection, the superficial cutaneous mycoses highly complicated and tricky. Ciclopirox is an old yet efficacious, versatile, and safe topical antifungal of the hydroxypyridone family. Despite its numerous beneficial properties over the majority of other topical antifungals, it remains underutilized.
Insights
Superficial cutaneous mycoses infections are complicated by antifungal resistance and other factors. Ciclopirox, a safe and effective topical antifungal, remains underutilized despite its benefits.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Mycology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Superficial cutaneous mycoses management is increasingly complex due to factors like antifungal resistance, improper corticosteroid use, and persistent predisposing conditions.
- Common predisposing factors include hyperhidrosis (sweat retention) and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
- Emerging global antifungal resistance poses a significant challenge to treating these common fungal infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the challenges in managing superficial cutaneous mycoses.
- To re-evaluate the therapeutic potential of ciclopirox as a topical antifungal agent.
- To advocate for the increased utilization of ciclopirox in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on superficial cutaneous mycoses.
- Analysis of the pharmacological properties and clinical efficacy of ciclopirox.
- Comparison of ciclopirox with other commonly used topical antifungals.
Main Results:
- Ciclopirox is an established, effective, and versatile topical antifungal agent belonging to the hydroxypyridone class.
- It demonstrates a broad spectrum of activity against various dermatophytes and yeasts.
- Despite its favorable safety profile and efficacy, ciclopirox is currently underutilized in the management of superficial fungal infections.
Conclusions:
- The management of superficial cutaneous mycoses is complicated by multifactorial issues including drug resistance.
- Ciclopirox offers a valuable therapeutic option with significant benefits over many other topical antifungals.
- Increased clinical awareness and utilization of ciclopirox are warranted to improve treatment outcomes for superficial fungal infections.
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