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What is Penlac?

Penlac (generic name ciclopirox) is a new medication that's prescribed to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails by killing the fungus responsible for these infections. It's a lacquer that you apply directly to the nails. Studies have shown that Penlac completely cured 5 to 9 percent of people using it and partially cured 6 to 12 percent of people who used it for almost one year. It's less effective than oral antifungal medications such as itraconazole (brand name Sporanox) and terbinafine (Lamisil), but may have fewer side effects.

You apply Penlac to the surface of affected nails every day. It may take up to six months before you notice an improvement. It's also important to clean and file or trim the nails every week, and receive professional nail care from a doctor or nurse once a month. Don't use nail polish with Penlac.

Sources:
Penlac Product Information (preliminary), Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. December 1999.
Miller, J.L. "Topical Treatment Approved for Fungal Nail Infection," American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy 57 (2000).
FDA Talk Paper, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. December 1999.

This answer prepared 10/26/00.