Antifungals: What They Do, Medicines
Antifungals are medicines that treat infections caused by fungi, such as yeasts. Fluconazole is an example taken by mouth. They are used for infections including vaginal thrush and some infections of the mouth, gut and blood. They come as tablets, capsules, liquids, creams and injections, and a doctor or pharmacist advises which suits an infection.
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How do Antifungals work?
Antifungals damage the outer layer of the fungal cell or stop it making a part of that layer, so the fungus cannot grow. Fluconazole, for example, blocks the making of a substance called ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Antifungals. They are listed A to Z.
- Clotrimazole: Clotrimazole is an antifungal medicine applied to the skin to treat fungal and yeast infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch and skin candidiasis.
- Fluconazole: Fluconazole is a prescription antifungal used to treat infections caused by yeasts, such as vaginal thrush and thrush of the mouth and throat.
- Itraconazole: Itraconazole is a prescription antifungal taken by mouth for some fungal infections of the nails, skin and body.
- Ketoconazole: Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine used in a shampoo to treat dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and pityriasis versicolor, conditions linked to yeast on the skin.
Common questions
Is thrush treated with an antifungal?
Yes. The NHS says thrush is treated with an antifungal as a tablet, pessary or cream, and it usually clears within 7 to 14 days. A pharmacist or doctor can advise, particularly if it is a first episode or keeps coming back.
Do antifungals interact with other medicines?
Some do. Fluconazole can interact with heart rhythm medicines, blood thinners and others. Tell the doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take, including herbal remedies, before starting an antifungal.
Can antibiotics treat fungal infections?
No. Antibiotics act on bacteria, not fungi. A fungal infection needs an antifungal. Some antibiotics can even make thrush more likely. A doctor or pharmacist can advise which type of medicine is needed.
Sources
- Fluconazole: a medicine for fungal infections and thrush. NHS (UK)
- Fluconazole. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Vaginal thrush. NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: J02. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission