Word parts
What it means
A drug for infections caused by fungi, such as yeast and molds. Some are put on the skin, mouth or vagina, such as clotrimazole, miconazole and nystatin; others are taken by mouth or IV, such as fluconazole. Amphotericin B is given IV for serious infections and can harm the kidneys. They treat conditions such as candidiasiskan-dih-DY-uh-sisAn infection caused by Candida, a yeast (a kind of fungus).Full entry , athlete's foot and ringworm.
For the nurse
Teach the client to use the drug for the full time ordered, even if symptoms clear. Nystatin oral suspension is swished in the mouth before swallowing. For amphotericin B, watch kidney function, potassium and reactions during the infusion.
At a glance
| Spanish | antifúngico |
|---|---|
| Also written | antifungals, antimycotic |
Related terms
antibiotic
A drug that kills bacteria or stops them from growing.
myc/o
A word root that means fungus.
candidiasis
An infection caused by Candida, a yeast (a kind of fungus).