Describe the mechanism of action of drugs effective against

Describe the mechanism of action of drugs effective against fungal infections.

Solution

The \"azole\" anti-fungal drugs act by disrupting the permeability of fungal cell wall. These drugs interfere with the synthesis of ergosterol, which a key structural component of fungal cell wall. Inhibition of ergosterol synthesis disrupts the fungal cell wall permeability and leads to cell death. Examples include the azole antibiotics such as fluconazole, miconazole and clotrimazole.

The topical anti-fungal drugs include ciclopirox in form of nail paint and efinaconazole. Oral anti-fungals include itraconazole, fluconazole and terbutaline.