Antifungal Drugs

Antifungal drugs are medications used to treat fungal infections, which can affect various parts of the body including the skin, nails, hair, and internal organs. These drugs work by targeting and inhibiting the growth of fungi, thereby treating or preventing the spread of infection. Antifungal drugs can be classified based on their chemical structure, mechanism of action, and the type of fungal infections they treat.

Uses of Antifungals

Superficial Fungal Infections: Skin, nails, hair (e.g., ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, nail fungus).

Mucosal Infections: Oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections.

Systemic Fungal Infections: Fungal infections affecting internal organs, such as the lungs (aspergillosis), bloodstream (candidemia), or brain (cryptococcal meningitis).

Side Effects

Azoles: Can cause liver toxicity, hormonal imbalances, and drug interactions.

Polyenes: Amphotericin B can cause kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances, and infusion-related reactions.

Echinocandins: Generally well-tolerated, but may cause liver function changes.

Allylamines: Terbinafine can cause gastrointestinal disturbances and, rarely, liver toxicity.

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Azoles

Azoles work by inhibiting an enzyme called lanosterol 14α-demethylase, which is essential for the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes.

Polyenes

Polyenes bind to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, creating pores that allow essential ions and molecules to leak out, leading to cell death.

Echinocandins

Echinocandins inhibit the synthesis of β-glucan, an essential component of the fungal cell wall, leading to cell wall weakening and eventual fungal cell death.