Antimykotické

Antimykotické refers to a class of drugs used to treat fungal infections. These infections, also known as mycoses, can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, nails, hair, mucous membranes, and internal organs. Antimykotické agents work by either killing the fungi (fungicidal) or inhibiting their growth (fungistatic), thereby allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection.

The effectiveness of an antimykotické drug depends on the specific type of fungus causing the infection and the site of infection. Fungal infections are broadly categorized into superficial and systemic mycoses. Superficial infections, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and candidiasis of the skin or vagina, are typically treated with topical antimykotické medications applied directly to the affected area. Systemic infections, which are more serious and involve internal organs, usually require oral or intravenous administration of antimykotické drugs.

Common classes of antimykotické drugs include azoles (e.g., clotrimazole, fluconazole), polyenes (e.g., amphotericin B, nystatin), allylamines (e.g., terbinafine), and echinocandins (e.g., caspofungin). Each class has a different mechanism of action, often targeting essential components of the fungal cell membrane or cell wall. The choice of treatment is determined by a healthcare professional based on factors such as the severity and location of the infection, the patient's overall health, and potential drug interactions. Side effects can range from mild skin irritation with topical treatments to more severe systemic reactions with oral or intravenous medications.