Ciclopirox is used to treat some types of fungal nail infections, mostly of the toenail or fingernail. It works by stopping the growth of the fungus. It is one of a group of medicines known as antifungals.
Ciclopirox is not effective for all fungal nail infections – it may not be effective if the infection is present in the deeper part of the nail. It's best used for superficial fungal infections (infections on the surface of the nail), that are not very severe. Ciclopirox can be bought from a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription. It is available as a liquid that is painted on to the nail.