Abstract

A SPECIFIC REVIEW ON ANTIFUNGAL AGENTS

Vaya Raj Kumar*, Choudhary Antim, Vaya Rajesh and Garg Ayush

ABSTRACT

Traditionally, many invasive fungal infections were associated with a poor prognosis, because effective therapeutic options were limited. The recent development of new antifungal agents has significantly contributed to the successful treatment of fungal diseases. Several new options are now available for management of serious fungal infections. These drugs offer novel mechanisms of action and expanded spectrums of activity over traditional treatment options. However, with these new agents comes the need for increased awareness of the potential interactions and toxicities associated with these drugs. Therefore, an understanding of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the classes of antifungal compounds is vital for the effective management of invasive fungal infections. New triazoles have broad spectrum of activity with voriconazole presently being the drug of choice against invasive aspergillosis and posaconazole is the possible first substitute of amphotericin B against zygomycosis. Echinocandins with new mode of action of inhibition of fungal cell wall polysaccharide synthesis are effective in treating candidemia and invasive candidiasis. Some of these agents are however, still awaiting FDA approval for their use in pediatric practice. This review provides a summary of the drugs involved in treatment of fungal diseases.

Keywords: Antifungal, mycosis, treatment and management.