Antifungal Agents

• Antifungal agents treat fungal infections by targeting the cell wall, cell membrane, or intracellular components to inhibit fungal growth.

Mechanisms of Action

1. Cell Wall-Targeting Agents

   • Inhibit beta-glucan synthesis, weakening the fungal cell wall.
   • Examples: Echinocandins (caspofungin, anidulafungin).

2. Cell Membrane-Targeting Agents

   • Disrupt ergosterol synthesis, compromising membrane integrity.
   • Examples:
     • Azoles: Fluconazole, Itraconazole.
     • Polyenes: Amphotericin B.

3. Intracellular Component-Targeting Agents

   • Inhibit nucleic acid synthesis (e.g., flucytosine) or cell wall synthesis (e.g., terbinafine).

Classification

They can be broadly classified into two categories:

1. Antifungal Antibiotics:

   • These are naturally derived antifungal agents produced by microorganisms.
   • Examples include:
     • Amphotericin-B
     • Nystatin
     • Natamycin
     • Griseofulvin

2. Synthetic Antifungal Agents:

   • These are chemically synthesized antifungal drugs used for various fungal infections.
   • Examples include:
     • Clotrimazole
     • Econazole
     • Butoconazole
     • Oxiconazole
     • Tioconazole
     • Miconazole
     • Ketoconazole
     • Terconazole
     • Itraconazole
     • Fluconazole
     • Naftifine hydrochloride
     • Tolnaftate

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