Azole Antifungals

Question 1

Azole Antifungals

Answer 1

• may be fungicidal or fungistatic, depends on the doasage & systemic levels
• affect the biosynthesis of sterol in fungus cell membranes
• common agents include fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and miconazole

Question 2

Patient education with Azole Antifungals

Answer 2

• advise client to complete full course of treatment (sometimes many weeks or months or even years)
• while taking KETOCONAZOLE avoid alcoholic beverages & wear sunglasses when outside, & b aware of drowsiness as a side effect

Question 3

Fluconazole

Answer 3

• used to treat cryptococcal meningitis

- given orally or IV

Question 4

Itraconazole

Answer 4

• used to treat aspergillosis, blastomycosis, and histoplasmosis
• specific side effect: rash
• given orally and with food

Question 5

Ketoconazole

Answer 5

• used to treat candidiasis, paracoccidioidomycosis, and recalcitrant tinea infections
• specific side effects: gynecomastia and impotency due to inhibition of testosterone and menstrual irregularities
• given orally and with food
• needs an acid medium for dissolution and absorption

Question 6

Miconazole

Answer 6

• used to treat dissemeinated and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis
• specific side effects: phlebitis at injections site and cardiorespiratory arrest
• given IV

Question 7

General Side Effects of Azole Antifungals

Answer 7

• nausea, vomiting, stomach distress, and diarrhea