Niogermox: Uses, Application and Side Effects

Niogermox is an antifungal nail lacquer used to treat onychomycosis, a common fungal infection of the nails.

In this guide, we’ll explain what Niogermox is, how it is used, what results to expect and its possible side effects.

What is Niogermox?

Niogermox is a brand of ciclopirox 8% nail lacquer marketed by ISDIN and sold in Mexico and some other countries. In the United States, the same active ingredient is sold as ciclopirox topical solution, including the brand Penlac.

Ciclopirox is a broad-spectrum antifungal that works against dermatophytes, the fungi that cause most nail infections, and some yeasts and molds.

Onychomycosis is more than a cosmetic issue. It can make nails discolored, thick and brittle, and the nail can separate from the nail bed. It is common, especially in older adults and people with diabetes or poor circulation.

How Does Niogermox Work?

Ciclopirox stops fungal cells from growing and multiplying. It works best on mild to moderate infections that don’t reach the base of the nail.

It does not prevent future infections once you stop using it. Keeping feet dry and wearing sandals in public showers can lower the risk of reinfection.

Application Instructions

These steps follow the Niogermox product information. Follow the leaflet in your package and your doctor’s directions.

Apply a thin layer once a day, preferably at night, to clean, dry affected nails.
Cover the whole nail and about 5 mm of the skin around it.
Don’t wash the treated nails for six hours after applying it.
Don’t remove it with nail polish remover or other solvents.

Niogermox uses a different lacquer base than US ciclopirox products like Penlac, which are removed weekly with rubbing alcohol. Follow the directions for the exact product you have.

Treatment Duration

Consistent daily use is key. The product information says treatment usually lasts about 6 months for fingernails and 9 to 12 months for toenails, until the nail has grown out healthy.

MedlinePlus notes that improvement from ciclopirox can take 6 months or longer, and the medicine may not fully cure the infection. For severe infections, a doctor may suggest oral antifungal pills instead.

Precautions and Special Considerations

Before using Niogermox, tell your healthcare provider about any allergies, other medications and your medical history.

For ciclopirox, MedlinePlus says this is especially important if you have diabetes, an immune system disorder such as HIV, a past organ transplant, cancer or peripheral vascular disease. People with diabetes should have foot and nail problems checked by a clinician, because infections in the feet can become serious.

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, ask your doctor before using it.

Contraindications and Warnings

Don’t use it if you are allergic to ciclopirox or any ingredient in the lacquer.
The product information lists it as not recommended for people under 18, because it has not been studied in that age group.
Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth and other mucous membranes.
It is for external use only.

Potential Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild and limited to the treated area. Redness, itching or peeling of the nearby skin can occur, and allergic contact dermatitis is rare.

Call your doctor right away if you have irritation, itching, burning, blistering, swelling or oozing at the application site. Also call if you notice pain around the nail, changes in nail color or shape, or ingrown nails.

Where to Get Niogermox

Niogermox is sold in pharmacies in Mexico and some other countries, and the price varies by pharmacy and package size. In the United States, ciclopirox nail lacquer requires a prescription.

Nail discoloration and thickening are not always caused by fungus. Psoriasis, injury and other conditions can look similar, so it is worth having a clinician confirm the diagnosis before starting months of treatment.

In summary, Niogermox is a ciclopirox nail lacquer that can help mild to moderate nail fungus with patient, daily use. Talk with your healthcare provider to see whether it is the right choice for you.