miconazole
Quick Summary
Miconazole is an antifungal agent used to treat infections caused by fungi. It belongs to the imidazole class of antifungals, which work by disrupting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. This disruption weakens the membrane, leading to fungal cell death.12
Miconazole is available in topical forms, such as creams, gels, lotions, or shampoos, and is used to treat conditions like athlete's foot, ringworm, and seborrheic dermatitis. Oral miconazole is reserved for severe systemic fungal infections, but its use is limited due to the risk of potentially fatal liver damage. Due to these risks, oral ketoconazole (a related drug) has been withdrawn or restricted in some countries.32
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