Medicine
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is an Antifungal Agent?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

An antifungal agent is a substance that kills fungi or inhibits its growth. There are many types of antifungals used to treat a range of illnesses and conditions caused by fungi. Some of these agents are topical while others are meant to be ingested. Many antifungal agents can be purchased over the counter for use without a doctor's guidance, but some are available only by prescription.

One type of antifungal agent is called a systemic antifungal. This type is usually taken orally, though doctors sometime administer them intravenously, which means through a vein. Some commonly prescribed antifungals are fluconazole, ketoconazole, and terbinafine.

Many antifungal agents may be purchased over-the-counter.
Many antifungal agents may be purchased over-the-counter.

Topical agents are meant to be applied to the skin or nails, but some can be placed into the body’s cavities. There are three primary categories of topical antifungal agents: azoles, allylamines and benzylamines, and polyenes. Each category works to destroy fungi in a slightly different way.

Polyenes kill fungi cells. They do this by binding to their cell membranes and making them leak. This type of topical antifungal was one of the first to be developed. Commonly used types of polyenes include nystatin and amphotericin B.

Antifunal agents may be delivered intravenously.
Antifunal agents may be delivered intravenously.

Azoles are another type of topical antifungal agent. They work to block a critical substance called ergosterol in fungi cell walls. This weakens the cell wall, causing the cells to eventually die. Clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and oxiconazole are among the commonly prescribed azoles.

Allylamines and benzylamines are another class of topical antifungals. These topical agents act in a similar manner to azoles, interfering with ergosterol. They interfere with this substance earlier on in its production process, however. As such, they are helpful for both inhibiting growth and killing fungi. Among the commonly used types of antifungals in this class are butenafine, naftifine, and terbinafine.

Side effects of antifungal agents may include upset stomach.
Side effects of antifungal agents may include upset stomach.

As with other types of medications, antifungal agents may cause side effects, regardless of whether they are used in over-the-counter or prescription form. Among the side effects possible with topical agents are burning, itching, minor pain, and rash where the antifungal agent is applied. Systemic agents are typically only available by prescription and may cause stomach upset, hives, rashes, itching, sight and taste disturbances, and headaches.

Side effects of antifungal agents may include headache.
Side effects of antifungal agents may include headache.

Most people who use antifungal medications do not experience side effects. Systemic antifungal medication can cause severe side effects in some people, however. For example, some of these drugs can damage the liver and the kidneys. They may even damage the heart and diminish a person’s white blood cell count, possibly making it harder for him to fight off infections. For these reasons, doctors often monitor their patients’ health while these medications are in use.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a TheHealthBoard writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a TheHealthBoard writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Many antifungal agents may be purchased over-the-counter.
      By: Tyler Olson
      Many antifungal agents may be purchased over-the-counter.
    • Antifunal agents may be delivered intravenously.
      By: Voyagerix
      Antifunal agents may be delivered intravenously.
    • Side effects of antifungal agents may include upset stomach.
      By: Yoanna Boyadzhieva
      Side effects of antifungal agents may include upset stomach.
    • Side effects of antifungal agents may include headache.
      By: zea_lenanet
      Side effects of antifungal agents may include headache.
    • Side effects of antifungal agents may include itchiness.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Side effects of antifungal agents may include itchiness.
    • Antifungal suppositories sometimes are used to treat vaginal yeast infections.
      By: FirstBlood
      Antifungal suppositories sometimes are used to treat vaginal yeast infections.
    • Antifungal creams commonly contain clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole or terbinafine.
      By: agephotography
      Antifungal creams commonly contain clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole or terbinafine.