Ciclopirox olamine for vulvar mycosis?

Vulvar mycoses rank among the most common infections of the female genital area. They are generally caused by yeasts of the genus Candida, of which Candida albicans is the predominant species. Naturally present in the vaginal flora, this yeast can become pathogenic when an imbalance in the microbiota or a local pH change promotes its overgrowth. Vulvar yeast infection episodes manifest as itching, burning sensations, redness, and sometimes thick, whitish discharge. While most infections are mild and self-limiting, they can still be painful and disruptive to daily life.

Vulvovaginal fungal infections require medical management, whether consulting a general practitioner or seeking advice from a pharmacist.

Most often, an antifungal cream is prescribed for application to the intimate area until symptoms disappear. Among the most commonly used active agents are imidazoles, such as econazole or isoconazole, as well as ciclopirox olamine. The latter is a recognized antifungal agent capable of acting against a broad spectrum of fungi, including yeasts of the genus Candida. A study in vitro demonstrated the inhibitory effect of ciclopirox olamine on Candida albicans. Different doses were added to the culture medium, and scientists observed that microbial growth decreased as the concentration of ciclopirox olamine increased.