Ciclopirox Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 16, 2025.

Applies to ciclopirox topical: topical cream, topical gel/jelly, topical shampoo, topical solution, topical suspension.

Precautions

If your skin problem does not improve within 2 to 4 weeks, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.

Inform your doctor right away if the area where you applied the medicine shows signs of increased irritation (e.g., redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling, or oozing) because it could be an allergic reaction.

Nail problems treated with the topical solution form of this medicine may take up to 6 months to start improving.

To help clear up your infection completely and to help make sure it does not return, good health habits are also required. The following measures will help reduce chafing and irritation and will also help keep the area cool and dry.

• For patients using ciclopirox for ringworm of the groin (tinea cruris):
  • Avoid wearing underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic materials (for example, rayon or nylon). Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear.
  • Use a bland, absorbent powder (for example, talcum powder) or an antifungal powder (for example, tolnaftate) on the skin. It is best to use the powder between applications of ciclopirox.
• For patients using ciclopirox for ringworm of the foot (tinea pedis):
  • Carefully dry the feet, especially between the toes, after bathing.
  • Avoid wearing socks made from wool or synthetic materials (for example, rayon or nylon). Instead, wear clean, cotton socks and change them daily or more often if the feet sweat freely.
  • Wear sandals or well-ventilated shoes (for example, shoes with holes on top or on the side).
  • Use a bland, absorbent powder (for example, talcum powder) or an antifungal powder (for example, tolnaftate) between the toes, on the feet, and in socks and shoes freely once or twice a day. It is best to use the powder between applications of ciclopirox.

If you have any questions about these measures, check with your health care professional.

Serious side effects of ciclopirox topical

Along with its needed effects, ciclopirox topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking ciclopirox topical:

Other side effects of ciclopirox topical

Some side effects of ciclopirox topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

See also:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ciclopirox topical: compounding powder, topical cream, topical gel, topical kit, topical lotion, topical shampoo, topical solution, topical suspension.

Nervous system adverse events

Nervous system side effects associated with the use of ciclopirox shampoo have included headache.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects associated with ciclopirox shampoo have included ventricular tachycardia.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included irritation, itching, erythema, and burning in 1% to 4% of treated patients. Seborrhea was the most common cause of early termination in subjects being treated with the shampoo. The shampoo has also been associated with rash and skin disorder. The topical nail solution has been associated with periungul erythema (1%) and proximal nail fold erythema, nail shape change, irritation, ingrown toenail, and nail discoloration.^[Ref]

Metabolic

Metabolic side effects associated with the topical nail solution have included 1 case of elevated creatine phosphokinase.^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• What home remedies work well for toenail fungus?
• How do I get rid of nail fungus?

Further information

Ciclopirox topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer