Overview of antifungal drugs with a wide spectrum of action. Broad-spectrum antifungal drugs in tablets - a list of effective ones with names and prices What are antifungal drugs

Fungal infections are among the actual and not fully resolved problems of modern medicine. According to statistics provided by the World Health Organization, about 90% of the population has experienced fungal diseases at least once in their lives.

At the same time, a third of all diagnosed cases account for foot mycosis. In order to treat these ailments, various ones have been created in tablets, in the form of ointments, sprays and varnishes.

In the medical field, all fungal diseases of the legs, depending on the type of pathogen, are usually divided into two categories: athlete's foot and rubrophytosis. In the area of damage to fungal pathogens are mainly the soles, the back of the foot and the skin between the fingers.

Factors that can provoke infection with a fungus are:

cracks and abrasions in the interdigital area, which occur against the background or dryness of the skin, regular use of uncomfortable shoes;
vascular diseases;
a decrease in the body's defenses and frequent stressful situations.

People who are in close contact with patients undergoing treatment for these ailments, as well as active visitors to public places such as saunas, baths and pools, are at risk of contracting onychomycosis and athlete's foot. The fungus is very resistant to negative environmental factors, so you can get infected even in places that are regularly disinfected.

The fact that it's time to use an antifungal agent in tablets or in the form of a cream will be indicated by the characteristic symptoms that can be observed already in the first days after infection. So, the first signs of a fungal infection are represented by the appearance of cracks and peeling, reddening of the skin and severe itching.

The main signs of nail fungus include:

the acquisition of a white, yellow, brown or black shade by the nail plate;
crumbling of the nail;
thickening or thinning of the nail plate;
deformation of the shape of the nail.

Features of modern treatment of nail and foot fungus

When identifying the above signs, you should immediately consult a doctor who can choose an effective treatment. In the early stages of the disease, patients are prescribed topical sprays and creams that are designed directly to act on the fungus and do not cause severe side effects.

For the treatment of advanced forms of the disease, accompanied by signs of deep damage, deformation and peeling of the nail plate, broad-spectrum antifungal drugs are prescribed in tablets.

Almost all antifungal tablets are dispensed without a prescription, but it is not recommended to self-medicate with onychomycosis and mycosis of the foot, since the use of the wrong drug and an irresponsible approach to treatment are fraught with deterioration.

In addition, it should be borne in mind that all antifungal antibiotics in tablets have a number of contraindications and can provoke unwanted side effects. This is the reason for the need for a preliminary consultation with a specialist who will determine the duration of treatment and optimal dosages.

The success of treatment depends largely on the patient, who must strictly follow the recommendations of the attending physician, not stop treatment and not skip medications. Otherwise, there is a high risk of relapse of the disease.

All modern antifungal tablets for skin and nails can be divided into several groups:

Polyenes;
Azoles;
Allylamines.

The first category includes all broad-spectrum antifungal tablets, represented by Nystatin, Nitamycin, Levorin and Amphotericin B. Recently, Nitsatin tablets, which are prescribed for candidal lesions of the skin and mucosa, are used less and less in the treatment. During treatment, patients may experience allergic reactions, bouts of nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain.

More effective against fungal infections caused by Candida fungi is Levorin. But its appointment is not recommended for patients with renal and hepatic insufficiency, as well as gastric ulcer.

Another highly effective broad-spectrum antifungal tablet with fungicidal properties is represented by Pimafucin, to which almost all mold pathogenic yeast fungi are sensitive. The first doses of an antibiotic may be accompanied by a significant deterioration in the condition, nausea, vomiting and dizziness, which, as a rule, disappear in the course of treatment.

Cope with life-threatening progressive fungal infections, disseminated forms of candidiasis and fungal sepsis will help Amphotericin B, which is prescribed only in conditions of urgent need.

Popular drugs for the fungus

No less effective are the drugs belonging to the second group and including various topical agents and antifungal tablets. Reviews coming from people who managed to cope with a fungal infection on the nails and feet make it possible to separately highlight drugs such as Ketoconazole, Itraconazole and Fluconazole.

The listed antimycotics allow you to cope not only with fungal infections of the nail plates and skin, but also with mucosal candidiasis and various types of lichen.

If the causative agent of the disease belongs to dermatophytes, higher fungi or yeast-like fungi, which can be established during an instrumental examination, then the patient is prescribed treatment with Ketoconazole or its analogues.

Often, the use of the drug is also due to the ineffectiveness of the local effect on fungal spores associated with deep damage to the nail plates or skin.

Unfortunately, Ketoconazole is a fairly strong antifungal pill that should not be taken during pregnancy and lactation, as well as in patients with kidney or liver failure.

During treatment, the patient may experience nausea, vomiting, headaches and serious disorders of the cardiovascular and genitourinary systems, so it is strongly not recommended to use the drug without a doctor's prescription.

These include the well-known Fluconazole and its analogues, prescribed for generalized candidiasis, systemic infection with the Cryptococcus fungus, foot mycosis, onychomycosis and lichen.

For and mycosis of the foot, drugs of the third group are also prescribed, including synthetic antifungal tablets for nails. Reviews allow you to highlight a drug such as Terbinafine.

Tablets have a wide spectrum of action and allow you to cope with dermatophytes and other fungi that are the causative agents of many diseases of the skin, hair and nails.

Summing up, it can be noted that it is quite difficult to determine which antifungal pills are better, because the appointment of a successful treatment should include a mandatory examination of the patient to determine the nature of the infectious agent and the individual characteristics of the organism.

Only in this case will it be possible to choose the best antifungal tablets that will please with positive results and will not have a negative effect on the body.

Video about pills from the fungus

Therapy of any fungal lesions is impossible without the use of medicines, but for effective healing it is recommended to use only effective and high-quality antifungal drugs. The combination of efficiency and quality does not mean the purchase of expensive medicines. On the pharmacy shelves, there are quite inexpensive medicines against the fungus, which are characterized by fast action and high efficiency. In the treatment of mycosis, analogues of expensive drugs can be used, which give the same result as the original drugs.

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Differences and features of antifungal medicines

Depending on the duration of mycosis, the presence of a concomitant disease, the volume of the affected skin surface and the nature of the manifestations of the fungus, antimycotic drugs are selected.

The forms of release of such medicines are quite diverse - they are available in the form of ointments, tablets, solutions, gels and suppositories. This diversity allows for the treatment of both external forms of mycosis (nail plates on the hands and feet, feet, genitals), and internal fungal manifestations. Antifungal agents in tablets can have a systemic effect; creams, gels, sprays and ointments are used for local therapy.

Treatment of a fungus with one drug most often does not bring the expected result, because several types of pathogens often settle on the body at the same time. For this reason, the doctor usually prescribes complex therapy for the fungus.

The cost of some drugs is relatively low due to the absence of costs for the invention of the active ingredient or the original formula, brand markup, etc. Domestic products are cheaper than foreign counterparts

Groups of the most effective antifungal drugs

Depending on the antifungal agents present in the composition and their pharmacological effects, several groups of antifungal drugs are distinguished.

Polyena

The first group of antimycotics are polyenes, which act on most of the pathogenic microflora.

Preparations included in the polyene group of antimycotics for internal use:

Name of the drug	Tool description	Price	Photo of medication
Nystatin	One of the cheapest preparations of the polyene group. The tool is very effective in the treatment of mycotic lesions such as Candida of the gastrointestinal tract, epithelium and mucous membranes of the larynx, resulting from prolonged use of antibiotics or after surgery. Contraindication - hypersensitivity to the drug. Very rarely, adverse reactions such as fever, histamine reaction and a painful condition of the gastrointestinal tract may occur.	from 60 rub
Levorin	A modern antifungal medicine that also acts on amoebas, Trichomonas and Leishmania. It is used for the treatment of mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, candidiasis of the epithelium, larynx and oral cavity, and in the complex therapy of prostatic hypertrophy in men. It is forbidden to take patients with liver or kidney failure, inflammation of the gallbladder and exacerbation of peptic ulcers, as well as women during pregnancy. Adverse reactions are loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. In rare cases, allergic reactions to individual components of the product may occur.	100 - 130 rubles
Pimafucin	The antibiotic effectively affects yeast mycoses Penicillium, Candida, Cephalosporium, Fusarium. It is used to treat candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract, ears, vagina and atrophic candidiasis while taking antibacterial drugs and hormonal agents. When taken orally, Pimafucin tablets act only in the stomach, without systemic effects in the body. May be used during breastfeeding and pregnancy. Side effects are minor - nausea, indigestion, which disappear after 1-2 doses.	about 250 rubles
Amphotericin B	The release form of the drug is a powder for the preparation of infusions. A strong antimycotic drug that is prescribed for severe forms of life-threatening mycotic lesions - peritonitis, disseminated varieties of candidiasis, sepsis provoked by a fungus, inflammation and infection of internal organs. It has a fungistatic and fungicidal effect. Violates the permeability of the membrane, resulting in the release of intracellular substances into the extracellular space and lysis of the fungus	from 30 to 50 rubles

Azoles

Drugs included in the azole group of antimycotics are inexpensive antifungal agents of synthetic origin.

Medicine name	Tool description	Price	Photo of the drug
Ketoconazole	One of the very cheap drugs for fighting fungi. It belongs to the group of azoles (the best medicines for the fungus of the nail plates of the epithelium, individual strains of lichen and hair). As part of the drug, such an active substance as imidazoledioxolane. This antibiotic is effective in the treatment of higher, yeast-like, dimorphic mycoses and dermatophytes. The use of antifungal tablets is recommended for chronic forms of candidiasis, folliculitis, recurrent vaginal mycosis and versicolor. The drug is more effective in the fight against a fungus that is resistant to other antimycotics. Contraindication - chronic diseases of internal organs. Adverse reactions such as jumps in blood pressure and allergic reactions in the form of rashes, indigestion and nausea, drowsiness and dizziness were observed.	from 100 rubles for 10 tablets
Itraconazole	Chemical antimycotic capsules are effective against a wide range of fungal strains such as yeasts, molds and dermatophytes. Using the remedy, it is possible to defeat vaginal and vulvocandidiasis, ringworm, keratomycosis, multi-colored lichen and candidiasis of the oral mucosa, mycosis of the nail plates and cryptococcosis, blastomycosis and sporotrichosis, as well as histaplasmosis. It is contraindicated to take the medicine during pregnancy and lactation. Possible adverse reactions in the form of vision problems and skin rashes, as well as menstrual irregularities in women	about 285 rubles for 14 capsules
Fluconazole	One of the most effective antifungal agents, preventing the growth of the fungus in the body and opposing their replication. Recommended for the treatment of candidiasis of the genitourinary system, candidiasis of the respiratory tract, generalized candidiasis of the gastrointestinal tract, sepsis, candidiasis of the mucous eyes, meningitis caused by Cryptococcus fungi, candidiasis of the larynx, mouth and lower respiratory systems, candidiasis of the genitals, onychomycosis and mycosis of the skin of the feet, mycosis of the epithelium and pityriasis versicolor . It is not recommended for use during lactation, it is prescribed with caution to women during pregnancy and people with heart disease. Possible side effects - an allergic reaction and digestive problems, if there is an individual sensitivity	about 24 rubles for 7 tablets
Mycomax	The antifungal drug disrupts the synthesis of the cell walls of the pathogenic fungus, as a result of which the development of the infection stops. The drug is effective in case of damage to the body by fungi of the genus Candida (Candida), Mycosporum, Cryptococcus or Trichophyton. Mikomax is prescribed for the treatment of thrush, mycoses of the feet, body, groin, pityriasis versicolor and nail fungus. Effective in the fight against candidomycosis of the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus, meningitis. Contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, the presence of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug and the age of up to 3 years (capsules)	from 230 rubles for 3 capsules

It is important to remember that the preparations of the azole group are recommended to be taken with food, drinking plenty of water. Antimycotics are incompatible and prohibited for simultaneous administration with Terfenadine, Pimozide, Quinidine, Astemizol and Lovastatin.

alliamids

This group includes synthetic drugs that can remove the fungus from the body. Alliamids affect dermatomycosis - infectious fungi of the epithelium, nail plates and hairline.

Terbinafine is a synthetic broad-spectrum drug used in the treatment of fungal infections of the epidermis, nails and hair caused by fungi and dermatophytes of filamentous fungi. Even a low concentration of the agent can completely kill all types of dermatophytes and molds, as well as types of dimorphic, yeast-like (Candida albicans), yeast fungi.

The drug acts on yeast fungi both in a fungicidal (completely destroying mycosis) and fungicidal (slowing down their growth) method, depending on the type of microorganisms being destroyed.

It is contraindicated to take the drug to persons with chronic diseases of the kidneys and liver, women during lactation and pregnancy. Possible side effects in the form of allergic rashes, taste bud disorders, headaches and problems with digestion. The drug is taken orally, regardless of the meal. The product is incompatible with alcohol. The price of the drug is from 48 rubles.

Antifungal capsules and tablets require prior appointment by a specialist. During treatment, it is possible to control blood biochemistry. Self-reducing the dose of the drug and stopping therapy is unacceptable. This can provoke the development of resistant strains of the fungus, causing a relapse of the disease.

Echinocandins

The mechanism of action of this group of drugs is unique among antifungal drugs. The powerful action of echinocandins is directed at the cell wall of the fungus, which gives them an advantage because they do not have cross-resistance with other drugs.

Preparations of this group are used in the treatment of various forms of candidiasis, aspergillosis and other mycoses. Available only for intravenous administration. The most common are Caspofungin (used for severe forms of candidiasis as prescribed by a doctor, as it has many contraindications) and Anidulafungin (prohibited for use under 18 years of age, during pregnancy, with liver diseases).

Caspofungin

pyramids

Antimycotics of this group have a wide spectrum of action. They penetrate inside the fungal cell and disrupt the synthesis of proteins important for fungi, destroying their DNA. Pyramids are used to treat complicated candidiasis, cryptococcosis, aspergillosis, chromoblastomycosis.

The representative of this group is the drug Flucytosine (Ankotil), produced in the form of tablets and solution for injection. The drug is usually used together with amphotericin B in the treatment of complicated fungal diseases. Price from 224 rubles.

flucytosine

A remedy for severe forms of mycosis - a natural antimycotic from the group of grisans

Means Griseofulvin belongs to the group of grisans (non-polyene antibiotics), effective in the fight against dermatomycetes. This is the best cure for fungus. Treatment with the drug is effective in the most severe forms of fungal diseases. But the treatment of mild mycotic manifestations with this remedy is not justified.

The following strains are susceptible to Griseofulvin:

Achorionum;
Trichophyton;
epidermophyton;
microsporum.

A medicine is prescribed for the treatment of microsporia of nails and hair, epithelium, trichophytosis, dermatomycosis, epidermophytosis. Do not take children under 2 years of age and patients with chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and blood, with oncology, during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Side effects are possible from the nervous and digestive systems, with individual sensitivity to the ingredients of the drug, allergic manifestations are possible. Price - from 250 to 350 rubles.

You cannot self-medicate. If the antimycotic is chosen incorrectly, then it will not bring the expected effect, and its long-term use can cause skin rashes and damage to internal organs.

Medicines for children

If there is candidal stomatitis (thrush) in a child, then drugs are usually prescribed in the form of tablets or plates. When treating a fungal infection in the organs of vision, the doctor will rely on the use of a suspension containing nystatin. Mycosis of the nail plates in a child is treated with a special varnish that neutralizes fungal colonies, creating a protective film on the nail.

If large lesions of the fungus occur in children, systemic therapy is used. Systemic drugs include:

Terbinafine (from 48 rubles);
Fluconazole (from 24 rubles);
Mikoseptin (from 348 rubles).

In pediatrics, self-treatment with antifungal agents is not allowed, because drugs have a number of contraindications and side effects. The optimal treatment plan should be drawn up only by a qualified doctor.

Fungal infection is a common reason for visits to doctors of various specialties. In some cases, it becomes a threat to the patient's life and requires immediate treatment, in others, mycosis can only cause discomfort and a feeling of embarrassment in front of others. Many oncological and systemic diseases are treated with aggressive drugs that suppress the immune system and cause the reproduction of a pathogen that only antifungal drugs can eliminate. Therefore, it is important to recognize the infection in a timely manner and begin its treatment, and in some cases, prevent infection.

Antimycotics are represented by a wide variety of drugs. These are predominantly broad-spectrum drugs, many of which are effective not only against pathogenic fungi, but also against other microbes. They are prescribed by a doctor after the diagnosis is established and are taken until the infection is completely cured.

Types of antifungals

Antimycotics are available in the following dosage forms:

topical products in the form of cream, gel, ointment, spray and drops;
oral preparations in the form of capsules, tablets or syrup;
solutions for intravenous infusions;
intravaginal tablets.

Adverse reactions

Antifungal medicines can cause side effects. They usually only last for a short period of time. These include:

itching or burning;
redness;
abdominal pain;
diarrhea;
rash on the skin.

Some drugs have more serious side effects. When taking them, the patient may develop anaphylactic shock or Quincke's edema: the face, neck or tongue swell, breathing may be difficult, blisters appear on the skin.

In case of an overdose, as well as in patients with liver diseases, liver failure may develop, in which the patient complains of the following symptoms:

Polyena

This is a group of drugs of natural origin. The main substance is obtained from bacteria of the genus Streptomyces. Upon contact with the fungus, it interacts with ergosterol, which is part of the plasma membrane, as a result of which a channel is formed in the wall, respiratory processes are disrupted and the cell dies. Polyene antifungals include:

Nystatin;
Amphotericin B;
Pimafucin.

Nystatin

Antimycotic agent effective against fungi of the genus Candida.

Nystatin is used for local infection, candidiasis of the oral cavity, mucous membranes, skin, and internal organs. In systemic diseases, it is not used.

The drug is available in the form of tablets, ointments, suppositories. It has low toxicity, rarely causes side effects, therefore it is approved for use in children. When taken, the medicine increases sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, therefore, during therapy, prolonged exposure to the sun should be avoided. Since sugar is present in the composition, the drug is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal enzyme deficiency.

Amphotericin B

A drug with a wide spectrum of activity, which is used to treat both severe fungal systemic diseases and local mycoses.

The drug can be taken by pregnant women, but with caution, lactation should be stopped for the duration of treatment. Do not use in patients with kidney and liver damage.

It is used externally as an ointment or intravenously. The introduction of the drug intravenously can be accompanied by a considerable number of side effects: from phlebitis (inflammation of the vein) in the area of drug administration to toxic effects on the liver and kidneys.

Azoles

The chemical structure of these agents includes two or three nitrogen molecules. Depending on the amount of this element, they are divided into imidazoles and triazoles. The imidazoles are:

Ketoconazole;
Miconazole;
Clotrimazole.

A derivative of imidazole and benzothiophene is Zalain.

Triazoles are represented by two names:

Fluconazole;
Itraconazole.

The mechanism of action of this group of drugs is expressed in the inhibition of enzymes dependent on cytochrome P450, which are involved in the biosynthesis of cell membrane sterols. This leads to a violation of the integrity of the fungal cell.

The range of action of drugs in this group is wide, and side effects are less common compared to polyene antibiotics. But with long-term use of azoles, life-threatening liver failure can occur.

It is more commonly caused by imidazoles than by triazoles. It is not recommended to take azoles together with medicines such as:

Cyclosporine;
antihistamines;
oral hypoglycemic agents;
anticoagulant drugs;
drugs that are metabolized in the liver.

Ketoconazole

A good antifungal drug that is widely used in dermatology. Effective when taken in tablet form, but it can also be used topically. Available in the form:

ointments;
tablets;
shampoo.

Active against infections caused by H. capsulatum and B. dermatitidis. The medicine is prescribed for the treatment of:

thrush;
dermatomycosis;
nail fungus;
ringworm;
mycosis of the genitourinary organs.

The drug can be used prophylactically to prevent the occurrence of infection.

Fluconazole

It is used for mycoses of external localization and systemic fungal infection. Available as:

capsules;
syrup;
solution for infusion.

One of the main indications for use is candidiasis of different localization (skin, genital area, oral cavity). The drug is well tolerated, side effects are rare, manifested by skin rash, diarrhea. Not recommended for use by children and pregnant women.

Itraconazole

An inexpensive antifungal drug that is prescribed for mycotic lesions of the skin, mucous membranes, and nail plates.

The drug is presented in the form of capsules for oral administration. It is not recommended to use Itraconazole in patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, liver and kidney failure. During pregnancy and lactation, you can not take the medicine. Side effects may include:

allergic reaction;
the phenomena of dyspepsia;
headache;
dizziness.

Of the more severe complications, there is a possibility of developing heart and liver failure.

Zalain

A modern medicine of a new generation of a wide spectrum of action. It is used to combat the fungus of external localization and vaginal candidiasis.. Available in the form of ointments and suppositories. Zalain practically does not cause side effects and does not have a systemic effect on the body. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. The result after the start of application is noticeable almost immediately.

Allylamines

This group of antimycotic agents is represented by two drugs: Terbinafine and Naftifine. They are used for fungal diseases of external localization (onychomycosis, skin fungus).

Terbinafine

Terbinafine effectively fights against pathogenic fungi and has an antibacterial effect.

In the pharmacy, the medicine can be found in the form of tablets, spray, cream and solution for external use. The drug is approved for children over 2 years of age.

Adverse reactions are minimal, patients may complain of:

Naftifin

This antimycotic is used for external use for skin fungus, damage to the nail plates. Contraindicated in case of allergy to drug components. Pregnant women should be used with caution, children are not prescribed.

Side effects are predominantly local in nature: rash, itching, burning in the areas of application.

Morpholine derivatives

This group is represented by one drug - Amorolfine. The drug is inexpensive, but when used correctly, it is effective. Available as nail polish, cream and spray. The drug gives the most reliable result with onychomycosis.

children (studies on the effect of the drug on the children's body have not been conducted);
pregnant and lactating;
people with hypersensitivity to the drug.

Undesirable reactions can be manifested by rashes on the skin, itching.

Other antifungals

Based on the results of the tests, the doctor may prescribe antimycotics from other chemical groups.

Griseofulvin

An antifungal medicine derived from the bacterium Penicillium griseofulvum. Produced in the form of tablets. It is prescribed for mycoses of the skin, feet, scalp.

Contraindications for use are:

systemic diseases;
damage to the kidneys and liver;
oncological diseases;
age up to 2 years;
pregnancy and lactation.

The drug reduces the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and anticoagulants of indirect action.

flucytosine

This medicine is an antimetabolite that has fungicidal and fungistatic effects. Its mechanism of action is to inhibit the synthesis of DNA and RNA in the fungal cell.

The medicine is effective for:

severe systemic diseases;
fungal meningitis;
candidiasis;
cryptococcosis;
aspergillosis.

Flucytosine is contraindicated:

during pregnancy;
during breastfeeding;
in childhood;
people with blood diseases and kidney failure.

The drug is used as an infusion for intravenous administration. It can have a large number of side effects, some of which are serious life-threatening:

cardiac arrest, breathing;
gastrointestinal bleeding;
liver failure.

Therefore, a medicine is prescribed according to strict indications and its intake should be under the supervision of a doctor.

Before using any of the drugs, you need to read the instructions, and if unwanted reactions occur, immediately contact your doctor.

At the moment, about five hundred varieties of representatives of the kingdom of fungi are known, but not all of them are dangerous, some representatives are conditionally pathogenic.

The pathogenicity of fungi is determined by their ability to influence the tissues of the organ and cause structural changes in the cell wall and metabolic processes in them. At the same time, the pathological fungal flora is able to synthesize individual toxic compounds, among which are:

aflatoxins;
phallotoxins;
various proteo- and lipolytic enzymes.

All of these chemical compounds contribute to the destruction of tissue and cellular components of the affected tissue or organ.

What is this article about?

Mechanisms of action of antimycotic agents

The development of pathogenic flora and its damage to the body is observed with a decrease in protective functions. A fungal infection most often damages the skin, nail plates and, in rare cases, the hairline area and internal organs of the body.

The advanced form of mycotic infection is much more difficult to treat than the disease at the initial stage of development. For this reason, pathology should be detected in a timely manner and adequate therapeutic measures should be taken.

Antimycotics are prescribed depending on:

Localization of the affected area.
type of pathology.
The spectrum of action of an antifungal agent.
Features of the pharmacokinetics and toxicity of the drug.

Depending on the affected area, fungi are divided into:

affecting the upper layer of the skin without the development of inflammatory processes;
damaging the stratum corneum and provoking the appearance of an inflammatory process in the underlying layers of the skin;
damaging the skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle structures, bones and internal organs.

The most common is the development of fungal infections belonging to the first two groups of diseases. Such ailments are keratomycosis, dermatomycosis and subcutaneous mycoses.

The main active components of antimycotic drugs.

Means with a wide spectrum of action have a fungistatic and fungicidal effect. Due to the presence of these properties, drugs contribute to the creation of conditions in the body for the destruction of fungal pathogens.

As a result of the fungistatic effect of antimycotics, the processes that ensure the reproduction of the pathogen in the body are suppressed.

The active components of systemic antifungal agents, entering the bloodstream, are carried throughout the body and destroy fungal spores. The active components of such drugs are in the human body for a long period of time, and the metabolic products of the active component are excreted mainly through the excretory system as part of the urine.

Each group of antifungal drugs has an individual mechanism of action, which is due to the difference in the set of active active ingredients.

Antimycotic drugs can be classified according to their chemical composition, spectrum of activity, pharmacological properties, and clinical use.

The following main groups of drugs are distinguished:

Preparations containing ketoconazole in their composition.
Means with itraconazole.
Medicines containing fluconazole.
Medicines with terbinafine.
Pharmaceutical preparations with griseofulvin.

When using any antimycotic, it is required to strictly follow the instructions for use and the recommendations of the attending physician, which is associated with the presence of high toxicity of drugs not only in relation to pathogenic fungal flora, but also to the body as a whole. When carrying out therapeutic measures, it is prohibited to interrupt the ongoing therapy without receiving instructions from the attending physician.

Reception of antifungal drugs is carried out at the same time with a meal and at the same time, they should be washed down with a sufficient amount of water.

If the patient has reduced acidity, then he is forbidden to take drugs belonging to the azole group.

If you can’t do without the use of drugs in this group, then in parallel with them, you need to take oxidizing liquids, for example, orange juice.

Classification of antifungal compounds

For the treatment of various types of fungal infections, drugs belonging to different pharmacological groups are used. In the case of a running form, systemic antimycotics are used to carry out therapeutic measures.

Before prescribing a medication belonging to a particular group for antifungal measures, the doctor conducts an examination to identify the type of fungus that has affected the patient's body, and only after its exact determination is an antifungal composition prescribed for treatment.

To determine the pathogen, a microscopic examination of the biomaterial obtained in the lesion is carried out. Such biological material can be a smear of the mucous throat, scales of the skin taken in the infectious focus, etc. After receiving the results of the examination, the doctor selects the composition and its appropriate dosage, taking into account the characteristics of the patient's body.

At the moment, there are several pharmacological groups of antifungal agents:

polyenes;
azoles;
allylamines.

Each of these pharmaceutical groups has its own characteristics of use and pharmacological properties, due to the main active ingredient used.

Characteristics of the azole group

The azole group is a large variety of medicines designed to combat fungal infections. This category of medicines includes both systemic and local agents.

Azoles are characterized by the presence of a fungistatic property, which is associated with the ability to inhibit cytochrome P-45 dependent demethylase, which catalyses the process of converting lanosterol to ergosterol, which is the main component of the cell membrane.

Topical formulations are capable of exerting a fungicidal effect.

The most common systemic drugs are:

Fulconazole.
Itraconazole.

Topical azoles are:

Bifonazole;
Isoconazole;
Clotrimazole;
Miconazole;
Oxyconazole;
Econazole.

It should be noted that after the synthesis of Intraconazole, a new generation drug, Ketoconazole has lost its significance as a component used for the treatment of fungal pathologies, due to its high toxicity. At the moment, this medication is more often used for local therapy.

When using systemic azoles, the patient may experience the following adverse reactions:

Pain in the abdomen.
Appetite disorders.
Feelings of nausea and urge to vomit.
Diarrhea or constipation.
Headaches.
Vertigo.
Drowsiness and visual disturbances
Tremors and convulsions.
Allergies in the form of itching, dermatitis.
thrombocytopenia.

In the case of using formulations for therapeutic measures at the local level, the following side effects may develop:

itching;
burning sensations;
hyperemia;
swelling of the mucosa.

The indication for the use of Intraconazole is the presence of ringworm and pityriasis versicolor. Candidiasis of the esophagus, skin and mucous membranes, nails, vulvovaginitis, cryptococcosis, chromomycosis and endemic mycoses. In addition, the medication is used to prevent mycoses in AIDS.

Fluconazole is used to treat invasive candidiasis, condidiasis of the skin and mucous membranes, ringworm, pityriasis versicolor and some other pathologies.

Ketoconazole is prescribed in the treatment of skin candidiasis, pityriasis versicolor. Dermatomycosis and other ailments.

Azoles for topical use are prescribed for the treatment of dermatomycosis, pityriasis versicolor and erythrasma. The appointment of this group of drugs for the treatment of onychomycosis is ineffective.

Polyene antifungals

Polyenes are natural antimycotics. This type of antifungal drugs include Nystatin, Levorin, Natamycin, and Amphotericin B.

The first three drugs are prescribed both internally and externally, and the last drug of this group has found application in the treatment of severe systemic infections with fungal flora.

The effect on the body depends on the dosage used and can manifest itself as a fungistatic and fungicidal effect. This effect of the funds is due to the ability of the drug to bind to ergosterol, which is part of the cell membrane of the fungal cell.

When taking polyenes, the following undesirable reactions may develop:

Pain in the abdomen.
Feeling of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Allergy in the form of a rash, itching and burning.

Polyenes are used to treat candidiasis of the skin, severe forms of systemic mycoses, and endemic fungal infections.

A contraindication to the use of this type of medication is an allergic reaction to the components, disorders in the functioning of the kidneys and liver, and the presence of diabetes mellitus. All these contraindications are relative, so the use of drugs can be carried out according to health indications.

The main characteristic of allylamines

Allylamines are synthetic anti-fungal agents. Pharmaceutical preparations are used to combat onychomycosis, fungus of hair, skin and for the treatment of lichen.

Allylamines are characterized by the presence of a wide spectrum of action. The active components of this group are capable of destructively affecting the structures of the shell of spores of a pathogenic fungus.

When using a low dosage of medicines of this variety, it is possible to treat infections of dimorphic and mold fungi.

The list of drugs of this variety includes:

Terbizil;
Lamisil;
Exiter.

In the process of use, allylamines have a fungicidal effect, which is associated with a violation of the reactions of ergosterol synthesis. Preparations containing allylamines are able to block the early stages of biosynthesis processes by blocking squalene epoxidase.

When using medicines of this variety, the following undesirable and adverse reactions may occur in a patient:

Pain in the abdomen.
Change in appetite.
Nausea and vomiting.
Diarrhea.
Loss of sense of taste.
Headaches and dizziness.
Allergy, manifested in the form of a rash, urticaria and exfoliative dermatitis.

In addition, the development of neutropenia and pancytopenia, an increase in transaminase activity and the development of liver failure are possible.

What medicines to use for a fungal infection?

The choice of a drug for the treatment of fungus is carried out by the attending physician only after examining the patient and establishing an accurate diagnosis. In this case, the doctor takes into account the clinical picture of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient's body.

Unauthorized appointment and completion of antimycotic therapy is strictly prohibited. It is also forbidden to replace one composition prescribed by the attending physician with another remedy, even if the medication is an analogue of the medicine that was prescribed by the doctor.

Antimycotics for body skin

Dermatomycosis is one of the most common mycotic diseases. It can affect the skin of the body in the head, arms, legs and abdomen.

A huge number of various medicines have been developed to combat this pathology. The most common and popular are Nystatin, Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole.

Nystatin is used in medical practice not only to treat a fungal infection of the skin, it has proven itself well when prescribed to cure candidiasis of the vagina, oral cavity and intestines.

Fluconazole is used in the detection of candidiasis of various organs. This medication belongs to the second generation of antimycotics, when it is prescribed, a negative effect on the functioning of the liver is possible, but after the end of antifungal therapy, the liver is able to restore its functionality in full.

Itraconazole is intended for oral administration, is available in the form of capsules and is used to treat skin mycosis, candidiasis and onychomycosis. In some cases, its use is recommended as an effective prophylactic drug against mycotic infection if a person has AIDS.

Clotrimazole can be prescribed during activities aimed at curing the fungus, lichen and trichomoniasis. This composition has a high degree of efficiency at a relatively low cost.

Antifungal medicines for candidiasis and nail fungus

If signs of candidiasis are detected, the attending physician recommends the use of topical preparations. In the case of an acute form of a fungal infection, drugs with a wide spectrum of effects are prescribed.

For this purpose, such medicines are used. Like Pumafucin, Clotrimazole and Diflucan. All of these drugs have a high degree of effectiveness in the fight against mycotic infection.

If nail fungus is detected at the initial stage, the dermatologist recommends treatment with solutions, ointments, special varnishes and gels.

If the lesion of the plate is registered on most of it, then you should pay attention to medications in tablet form and having a wide spectrum of action. The attending physician is engaged in the choice of a suitable medicinal composition. He makes his choice on the basis of the distribution and stage of development of the pathology and the individual characteristics of the human body.

The most effective drugs in the fight against onychomycosis are fluconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, flucostat and terbinafine.

General recommendations when using antifungal formulations

Any kind of mycotic infection is a serious disease that requires a systematic and integrated approach to therapeutic measures.

Specialists in the field of medicine do not recommend the self-administration of antimycotics for the treatment of an infectious disease, this is due to the fact that most drugs can have a negative toxic effect on the patient's body.

In addition, almost all antimycotics are capable of provoking the appearance of a whole range of side and negative effects in the body.

The selection of drugs for treatment and the determination of their dosage should be carried out by the doctor who diagnosed the pathology in accordance with the characteristics of the course of the disease and the individual characteristics of the body of the patient infected with a fungal infection.

When choosing a drug for therapeutic measures, it should not be based only on patient reviews about it, the use of any antimycotic drug is allowed only after consultation with the attending physician, and the treatment itself must be carried out with strict adherence to the instructions for use and doctor's recommendations.

A fungus on the skin or nails is not the most pleasant disease in which doctors advise using antifungal ointments among all medicines. Pharmacies and online stores offer more than a dozen items, different in price and manufacturer's promises. Which of them is better and how to choose the right drug, especially for children and pregnant women?

What are antifungal ointments

If a large area is affected, doctors consider it effective to use creams and ointments that have a high concentration of the active substance, but, unlike solutions, are devoid of an alcohol component, therefore they do not worsen itching and dryness of the skin. Ointments give a long-term effect on the fungus, are easy to use, well absorbed. In medicine, there are only 3 groups of such drugs:

Antibiotics, of which the antifungal effect is predominantly Nystatin ointment.
Azoles. Spores pass through the membrane, destroying it, and inhibit the synthesis of fungi. Representatives - Dermazole, Fluconazole, etc.
Allylamine. In addition to the therapeutic effect, they also give a preventive one. Due to their pharmacokinetic properties, drugs in this group are used primarily for the treatment of the nail plate.

Antifungal ointments for the skin

When choosing a drug, one should rely not only on the type of disease, but also on the type of pathogen - the same antifungal ointment for the legs may not work or give a weak effect if you buy a medicine without knowing who provoked mycosis. The drug should act on:

yeast mushrooms;
dermatophytes;
fungi.

For the intimate area

For thrush, doctors recommend topical ketoconazole or clotrimazole-based agents, which can be combined with metronidazole. Even long-term treatment with such antifungal drugs does not lead to the accumulation of the active substance in the body, therefore it is as safe as possible. Gynecologists recommend:

Candide is a good antifungal ointment for the intimate area on clotrimazole. It has an anti-yeast and antibacterial effect, acts on mold fungi, the causative agent of erythrasma.
Clomegel is a combined agent with an antimicrobial effect, used for vaginitis, vaginosis and in the case of urogenital trichomoniasis.

For body skin

Most of the topical medicines used for the hands, feet and face can also be recommended in the treatment of the skin of the body. Often, doctors advise to carry out therapy with such drugs:

Exoderil. The active ingredient, naftifine hydrochloride, accumulates in the skin. Cases of overdose have not been recorded, but can provoke allergies.
Zalain. The active substance is sertaconazole, therefore it often causes individual intolerance. Suppresses the growth and activity of fungi, treatment takes more than a month.

For the scalp

Ointment for fungus on the face

In the treatment of mycosis that has affected the skin of the face, doctors often prescribe Orungal to the patient, but this is not an ointment, but capsules for oral administration. You can combine them with the drug Mikoket. It owes its antifungal action to ketoconazole, prevents the reproduction of pathogens of mycosis. The course of treatment is more than 14 days: for lichen 21 days, for ringworm - 28. Skin allergic reactions rarely provokes.

For legs

Treatment of mycosis of the feet involves the removal of inflammation, the elimination of discomfort, the improvement of blood circulation and the destruction of the pathogen. At the initial stage, even a simple antiseptic - salicylic, zinc - can be used as an ointment against fungus. In severe cases, a more serious drug is needed. Additionally, doctors advise not to use antibiotics and corticosteroids during mycosis - this will worsen the course of the disease.

Ointments are used for the legs:

Terbizil. The active substance is almost not absorbed into the blood, but is transmitted with breast milk. Effective against dermatophytes and yeast-like fungi. The number of contraindications is minimal.
Futsis - works on fluconazole, is available in the form of a gel, the duration of use should not exceed 3 weeks.

For hands

Antimycotic agents indicated for the treatment of fungus on the legs can similarly be used for lesions of the hands, since one pathogen is often to blame. However, a predominantly antifungal cream for the skin of the hands should fight candidiasis, the most common disease in this area. If the stage is severe, the medicine may contain an antibiotic. Especially recommended by doctors:

Mycozolon is a combination drug that has an antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect, the result can be seen in 2-4 weeks.
Sertaconazole - on imidazole, helps fight candidiasis, lichen, dermatophytosis. The active substance does not penetrate into the blood.

Antifungal drugs for nails

Medicines used for onychomycosis should have several forms: in addition to antifungal ointments, varnishes are used that work better with the nail plate. The preparations must have a keratolic effect, since the infected nail must be removed. They contain the following substances:

Bifonazole - helps to fight the fungus not only on the plate, but also on the periungual roller. Affects the growth of the pathogen and kills it.
Fluconazole is a broad-spectrum substance that is among the safest for the body.
Terbinafine - also affects a large number of fungi, inhibits the synthesis of sterols and destroys the cells of the infectious agent.

On foot

Due to the density of the toenail plate, doctors advise choosing an antifungal ointment that will soften it to make it easier to remove the infected area. Among such drugs, experts distinguish Mycospor. A combined agent on bifonazole and urea (makes the antifungal component more effective), has an antimycotic effect. Treatment is carried out by suppressing the biosynthesis of ergosterol at 2 levels. Kanespor works the same way.

On hands

Experts do not distinguish obvious differences between antifungal agents for nails of hands and feet, excluding the thickness of the affected plate. Mostly for the treatment of hands, a cream from the Lamiderm fungus is used, which shows fungicidal activity. The medicine can also be used for the purpose of prevention. During treatment should not be exposed to sunlight on the nails. It is desirable to combine with a solution of chlornitrophenol.

Antifungal ointments for children

Due to the high toxicity, drugs with antifungal activity are rarely used in pediatrics, so the doctor should select them based on data on the state of the body and the severity of the disease. There are several points in choosing antifungal agents:

Terbizil can be used even in the smallest children (considered safe), but only as a topical. Oral intake is allowed only from 2 years.
Antifungal drugs of the allylamine series (Exoderil, Lamisil) cannot be used in children under 12 years of age.
In acute situations of candidiasis, Amphotericin B can be used, but not systemically.
With onychomycosis in a child, doctors advise using azole-based ointments (Nizoral, Mifungar).
With dermatophytosis, Tolnaftat is allowed.

Antifungal ointments during pregnancy

Due to the same high degree of toxicity, antimycotic agents for pregnant women should be from a new generation, since only they have a reduced degree of negative effect on the body. Doctors allocate ointments based on:

triazole;
nitrophenol;
imidazole.

However, even these antifungal drugs should be used under the supervision of a doctor, strictly observing the dosage. If we consider specific names, during pregnancy are allowed:

Clotrisal;
Clotrimazole;
Lamisil;
Mycospor;
Mycosan;
Miconazole.

Ointments for skin diseases of a wide spectrum of action

If you are not ready to try to choose between several items, purchasing all the drugs from the list is too expensive, or they are not on sale, you can resort to universal topical antifungal agents:

Lamisil. The ointment is positioned as a multifunctional, used for any fungal diseases. The course of treatment is short - up to 4 weeks. The disadvantage is the high price, so if you want the same result, but cheap, buy Terbinafine.
Exoderil. Like other antifungal drugs for the skin of the body, it works well on the legs and arms, and can be used in the treatment of nail fungus. Among the advantages - a quick therapeutic effect.

Antifungal ointments are inexpensive but effective

If you are looking for cheap topical preparations with an antifungal effect, you can look at antiseptic ointments: they do not affect the fungus in the same way as antimycotic ones, but they also have less toxicity. Doctors advise to look at:

Salicylic ointment - works well at the initial stage of fungal skin lesions (mainly lichen), later it may not be effective.
Zinc ointment - suitable for long-term treatment of the fungus, prevents further infection, relieves itching, stimulates skin regeneration.

The price of antifungal ointments

The cost of drugs of this type in Moscow and St. Petersburg is at the same level: the cheapest ointment for a fungus on the skin of the body or hands will require 100-150 rubles. Buying more expensive drugs, especially the new generation, will cost 300-700 rubles. Prices in Moscow pharmacies, excluding delivery (if you plan to order an ointment in the region, it will be more expensive than in Moscow) look like this: