Abafungin

Antifungal medication

Abafungin
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INN
Drug class
Routes of administration	Topical
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number	129639-79-8
PubChem	6433100
DrugBank	DB04836
ChemSpider	4938290
KEGG	D02892

Abafungin is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent used primarily in the treatment of dermatomycoses. It is unique among antifungal agents due to its mechanism of action, which involves the inhibition of sterol biosynthesis and the disruption of fungal cell membranes.

Mechanism of Action

Abafungin acts by inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase, which is crucial in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. Ergosterol is an essential component of fungal cell membranes, and its depletion leads to increased membrane permeability and cell death. Unlike other antifungals, abafungin also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the symptoms associated with fungal infections.

Clinical Use

Abafungin is primarily used in the treatment of superficial fungal infections such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea corporis (ringworm), and tinea cruris (jock itch). It is applied topically, and its broad-spectrum activity makes it effective against a variety of fungal pathogens, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Pharmacokinetics

When applied topically, abafungin is absorbed into the skin layers where it exerts its antifungal effects. The systemic absorption of abafungin is minimal, which reduces the risk of systemic side effects. The drug is metabolized locally in the skin and excreted through natural skin shedding processes.

Side Effects

Common side effects of abafungin include mild skin irritation, redness, and itching at the site of application. These effects are generally transient and resolve with continued use. Severe allergic reactions are rare but can occur.

Related Pages

• Antifungal drug
• Dermatophyte
• Ergosterol
• Squalene epoxidase

Gallery

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  Chemical structure of abafungin
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  3D space-filling model of abafungin