Drugs used to treat oral candidiasis: literature review

Abstract

Oral candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida spp. Species, an opportunistic fungus present in the normal oral microbiota of healthy individuals. A variety of systemic and local factors can cause Candida spp. in the oral mucosa, leading to oral candidiasis. The aim of this study was to perform a literature review on the drugs used in the treatment of oral candidiasis. Nystatin is a polyenic antifungal that binds to the fungal plasma membrane ergosterol, increasing membrane permeability through the creation of pores, promoting the leakage of essential cell components and thus resulting in cell death. Amphotericin B is another polyenic antifungal that has the same mechanism of action as nystatin and is used in more severe fungal infections. There are also azole antifungals that act by blocking the enzyme sterol 14-demethylase, promoting structural and functional damage to the plasma membrane and consequently leading to yeast death. In this group, ketoconazole, fluconazole and miconazole stand out. It is important to perform a detailed history and know the mechanism of action of these drugs due to the various drug interactions that occur. Thus, the literature review is of great relevance to the dental surgeon