A brief review of fluconazole as an antifungal agent and the need for research into its nanoformulation

Abstract

Antifungals compounds have gained significant attention, and in this context, fluconazole as an antifungal is used predominantly, and the use of a nanoformulated form of this is discussed. Fluconazole, an FDA-approved antibiotic, is an effective antimicrobial especially used to treat fungal infections. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it contains fluoride with triazole functionality. Its efficacy against various types of fungus is demonstrated. Although it is one of the effective antibiotics, its side effects are well documented, and due to this, many techniques are tried to improve its efficacy with lesser side effects. In this respect, nanoparticles play a crucial role, and many studies worldwide are carried out on this aspect. Among many nano techniques use of chitosan as well as lipid carriers of fluconazole are being considered. However, systematic studies are warranted to take this aspect into clinical trials. Nano-based platforms seem to be an alternating hope to combat resistance and side effect. A thorough study is the need of the hour to devise a proper nano-based strategy of fluconazole.