Clioquinol Market

Clioquinol is expected to witness a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period of 2025-2035. Clioquinol (iodochlorhydroxyquin) is an antifungal and antibacterial compound of the hydroxyquinoline series. It has been utilized for decades in pharmacy because of its success in treating dermatoses caused by fungi, skin infections, and some protozoal infections. Originally synthesized as an intestinal antiseptic, Clioquinol became noted for its topical uses in dermatology, especially in the management of eczema, athlete’s foot, and other microbial skin infections.

The mechanism of action of the compound is through the chelation of metal ions like zinc and copper, which are necessary for microbial growth, thus interfering with their metabolic processes. In manufacturing on an industrial level, Clioquinol is usually prepared by a process of halogenation of 8-hydroxyquinoline when iodine and chlorine atoms are added using carefully controlled chemical processes under conditions suitable for pharmaceutical preparation. Such manufacturing is often prepared in accordance with GMP standards to ascertain the safety and pharmacological efficacy.

On the industrial front, Clioquinol remains valid because it holds broad-spectrum antimicrobial actions. Although its use in the oral route has diminished in most nations since previous alarms over subacute myelo-optic neuropathy (SMON), especially in Japan during the 1970s, it continues to be an active ingredient in a variety of topical creams, ointments, and dusting powders. Governmental regulatory agencies in most regions, such as the U.S.

FDA and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have approved its use in topical applications, which has made it possible for manufacturers to continue adding it to over the counter and prescription-based dermatology products. Clioquinol is also currently of renewed scientific interest for its possible application in research on neurodegenerative disease. Research has investigated its chelating capacity for abnormal metal accumulations in the brain, with early positive results in such diseases as Alzheimer’s disease. This changing use has the potential to create new industrial pipelines in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, particularly in neuropharmacology