ABSTRACT
This chapter presents classification & mode of action, indications & dermatological uses, formulations/presentation, dosages & suggested regimens, baseline investigations, considerations & monitoring, contraindications, cautions, important drug interactions, adverse effects & their management, use in special situations, and essential patient information of Antifungals. Systemic antifungal drugs are highly effective in treating superficial dermatomycoses acquired in temperate climates. The plasma membrane of fungal cells contains ergosterol rather than cholesterol as in mammalian cells and the majority of antifungal drugs exert their selective effects by interfering with the enzymatic pathway of ergosterol biosynthesis. Human immunodeficiency virus infection may predispose individuals to more severe and more frequent infections, particularly onychomycosis, which may fail to respond to conventional doses of antifungals. Azole antifungals are a synthetic group of fungistatic agents with a broad spectrum of activity. Most imidazole antifungal drugs are only formulated for topical use to treat the skin and nails.
