The triazole antifungal agents: a review of itraconazole and fluconazole

Abstract

Fluconazole and itraconazole are two investigational triazole antifungal agents that are currently undergoing clinical trials in the United States. Both are active orally, have favorable pharmacokinetics (i.e., good bioavailability, long half-life, low plasma protein binding), and possess activity against several systemic fungal pathogens. In addition, preliminary information suggests that these agents are substantially less toxic than currently available azole compounds. Fluconazole and, to a lesser degree, itraconazole have been shown to be highly effective for the treatment of cryptococcal meningitis. The potential for drug interactions is much lower with these agents compared to drugs such as ketoconazole.