Flucytosine

Definition

Flucytosine is an antifungal medication primarily used to treat serious fungal infections. It works by interfering with fungal RNA and protein synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Flucytosine is often used in combination with amphotericin B to enhance its efficacy.
2. It is particularly effective against Candida and Cryptococcus species.
3. Flucytosine's primary mechanism of action involves conversion to 5-fluorouracil within the fungal cell, inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis.
4. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal disturbances.
5. Monitoring of blood levels is necessary due to potential toxicity, especially in patients with renal impairment.

Review Questions

• What are the primary fungi that flucytosine is effective against?
• Why is flucytosine often used in combination with other antifungal drugs?
• What are the major side effects associated with flucytosine?

Related terms

Amphotericin B: An antifungal drug commonly used in combination with flucytosine for treating severe fungal infections.

Candida: A genus of fungi that can cause infections in humans, commonly treated with antifungals like flucytosine.

Cryptococcus: A type of fungus causing cryptococcal meningitis, often treated with a combination of flucytosine and amphotericin B.