Flucytosine

Definition

Flucytosine is an antifungal medication used to treat serious fungal infections. It works by inhibiting fungal DNA and RNA synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flucytosine is often used in combination with amphotericin B to treat severe fungal infections such as cryptococcal meningitis.
2. It is particularly effective against Candida and Cryptococcus species.
3. Flucytosine can be administered orally, making it convenient for long-term treatment.
4. The drug is converted into fluorouracil within the fungal cell, which interferes with nucleic acid synthesis.
5. Due to its rapid development of resistance when used alone, flucytosine is rarely prescribed as a monotherapy.

Review Questions

• What mechanism does flucytosine use to inhibit fungal growth?
• Why is flucytosine often combined with other antifungal medications like amphotericin B?
• Which types of fungi are most effectively targeted by flucytosine?

Related terms

Amphotericin B:

An antifungal medication often used in combination with flucytosine for treating severe systemic fungal infections.

Cryptococcal Meningitis:

A serious infection of the central nervous system caused by Cryptococcus fungi, often treated with a combination of flucytosine and amphotericin B.

Candida:

A genus of yeasts that can cause infections in humans, commonly targeted by antifungal treatments including flucytosine.