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Ciclopirox

Mechanism of action
Ciclopirox chelates polyvalent cations (aluminum, iron),
resulting in inhibition of metal-dependent enzymes that are
responsible for degrading peroxides inside fungal cells.
Clinical use
Ciclopirox is an option for treating topical fungal infections.
The drug is formulated as a topical cream, gel, and solution.
The topical solution is applied daily (like nail polish) to fingernails
and toenails that are affected by fungus. Each day, a new
layer of drug is applied over existing layers; once per week,
previous layers of drug are removed. Although it takes a year
for ciclopirox to eliminate the nail fungus, it is an option for
patients who are unable or unwilling to tolerate the potential
hepatotoxicity of azoles.

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