Antifungals - Mechanism of Action

Antifungals are a class of medications used to treat fungal infections in humans. They work by either killing the fungi or inhibiting their growth.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Widely available in various formulations including creams, oral tablets, and injections.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Antifungals FAQ


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What are antifungal drugs?

Antifungal drugs are medications that are used to treat fungal infections. While most fungal infections affect areas such as the skin and nails, some can lead to more serious and potentially life threatening conditions like meningitis or pneumonia. There are several types of antifungal drugs available to fight fungal infections.

What are antifungals & how do they work?

Antifungals are medicines that kill or stop the growth of fungi (the plural of fungus) that cause infections. They are also called antimycotic agents. Fungal infections can affect the: Circulatory system. Respiratory system. Skin and nails. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission.

What are antifungals & how are they categorized?

The term 'antifungals' encompasses all chemical compounds, pharmacologic agents, and natural products used to treat mycoses. Clinically, fungal infections are best categorized first according to the site and extent of the infection, then the route of acquisition, and finally, the virulence of the causative organism.

Antifungals References

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