Anti Fungal
An antifungal agent is a drug that selectively eliminates fungal pathogens from a host with minimal toxicity. Antifungal medications come in a wide range of formulations and are classified as systemic or topical— although many agents can be administered both ways. Their mechanisms include:
- Inhibition of fungal membrane and cell wall synthesis
- Alteration of fungal membrane integrity
- Interference with microtubules
- Inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis
Systemic antifungals (e.g., amphotericin B) tend to have higher toxicity to mammalian cells, while topical antifungals show minimal systemic toxicity due to limited absorption.
Product Description
Antifungal resistance is growing with the expanded use of antifungal agents. Resistance to polyene antifungals is typically **primary**—species are inherently resistant without previous drug exposure.
Example:
- Amphotericin B-resistant fungi: Pseudallescheria boydii, Candida lusitaniae
These species inherently resist amphotericin B and do not develop resistance due to exposure. In contrast, both **primary and secondary resistance** occur with 5-fluorocytosine, which is why it is generally used only in combination therapy.
Guidelines
Before starting antifungal treatment, consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding:
- Existing health conditions or allergies
- Potential side effects of antifungal medications
- Suitability during pregnancy or breastfeeding — many antifungals are not recommended
Clinical Research
Antifungal treatments are available in several forms:
- Topical: Cream, gel, ointment, or spray applied to skin, nails, or hair
- Oral: Tablets, capsules, or liquid medicine
- Intravenous: Administered into a vein (usually in a hospital setting)
- Intravaginal: Pessary tablets inserted into the vagina
Availability
Extremely effective against a broad range of superficial and systemic fungal infections.
Indication: Systemic fungal infections, dermatophytosis, oral thrush.