Candirox 15 gm Cream

Candirox 0.77% Cream (Ciclopirox Olamine)

Manufacturer: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Generic Name: Ciclopirox Olamine 0.77% w/w
Therapeutic Class: Antifungal / Topical Antimycotic
Presentation: 15gm cream tube
Price: ৳110.00 per 15gm tube

Indications

Candirox 0.77% Cream is indicated for the topical treatment of fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and other susceptible fungi, including:

• Tinea pedis (athlete's foot — interdigital and plantar types)
• Tinea cruris (jock itch — groin ringworm)
• Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body)
• Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor — caused by Malassezia furfur)
• Cutaneous candidiasis (skin infections caused by Candida albicans and other Candida species)
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis — where fungal colonisation (particularly Malassezia) plays a role

Composition

Each gram of Candirox Cream contains: Ciclopirox Olamine 7.7mg (0.77% w/w) in a water-miscible cream base.

Mechanism of Action

Ciclopirox olamine is a broad-spectrum synthetic antifungal agent with a unique mechanism of action distinct from azoles and polyenes:

• Chelation of polyvalent metal cations: Ciclopirox chelates iron and aluminium ions, inhibiting metal-dependent enzymes essential for fungal metabolism — including cytochrome c-dependent electron transport, enzymes of the respiratory chain, and peroxidases/catalases that protect the fungal cell from oxidative damage.
• Cell membrane disruption: Alters intracellular transport across the fungal cell membrane, leading to accumulation of toxic metabolites.
• Broad spectrum: Active against dermatophytes (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton), yeasts (Candida species, Malassezia furfur), and selected gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria — the antibacterial activity helps address secondary bacterial colonisation.
• Fungicidal at higher concentrations — exhibits concentration-dependent killing; fungistatic at lower concentrations.

Dosage and Administration

Apply a thin layer of Candirox 0.77% Cream to the affected skin and the immediate surrounding area twice daily (morning and evening), or as directed by the physician.

Duration of treatment:

• Tinea pedis: 4 weeks
• Tinea corporis / tinea cruris: 2–4 weeks
• Cutaneous candidiasis: 2–4 weeks
• Tinea versicolor: 2 weeks

Gently massage the cream into clean, dry skin. Wash hands after application unless hands are the affected area. Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration even if symptoms improve early — premature discontinuation may result in recurrence.

For interdigital tinea pedis: Ensure the cream is applied between and under the toes; wear breathable cotton socks and keep feet dry.

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to ciclopirox olamine or any component of the formulation
• Not for ophthalmic (eye) use
• Avoid contact with mucous membranes

Warnings and Precautions

• For external use only — not for oral, ophthalmic, or vaginal use.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes; if accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• If irritation, sensitisation, or worsening occurs, discontinue and consult a physician.
• Do not use under occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by a physician.
• In patients with diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, or immunosuppression, fungal infections may be more resistant — close monitoring and longer treatment duration may be required.

Side Effects

Common (at application site): Mild burning sensation, erythema (redness), itching — usually transient and well tolerated.

Uncommon: Contact dermatitis (allergic sensitisation to ciclopirox — rare; confirm with patch testing if suspected).

Ciclopirox olamine is generally very well tolerated; systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal (<1.3%).

Drug Interactions

No significant systemic drug interactions are expected given minimal dermal absorption at standard topical doses. No clinically relevant interactions have been reported.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnancy: Safety in pregnancy has not been fully established. Avoid use in the first trimester; use only when clearly necessary in the second and third trimesters under physician guidance. Apply to limited areas for short durations to minimise systemic exposure.

Lactation: Avoid application to the breast or nipple area during breastfeeding. Systemic absorption through skin is low; use with caution.

Special Populations

Paediatrics: May be used in children, with care to avoid eye contact and accidental ingestion.

Diabetic patients: Fungal skin infections are more common and may be more severe. Candirox Cream is an appropriate choice for cutaneous candidiasis in diabetic patients — ensure comprehensive glycaemic management alongside antifungal treatment.

Storage

Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube.

Pricing

Candirox 0.77% Cream 15gm: ৳110.00 per tube

Disclaimer: This product information is for reference purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a registered physician or qualified healthcare professional before taking any medication.