Antimetabolites
Antimetabolites are building blocks that are incorporated into DNA or RNA and then interfere with it due to their structure. DNA describes the genetic material and is present as a long, double-stranded thread consisting of individual building blocks that are joined together in a chain. Usually, the structure is modified in such a way that the antimetabolites can be incorporated, but cannot be extended due to the lack of a specific chemical structure.
This is also called chain termination.RNA is the term used to describe the parts of DNA that are needed to produce a certain protein or enzyme. RNA has the same structural components as DNA, but unlike DNA, it is only present as a single strand. This means that proteins and enzymes, which the fungi need to survive, cannot be produced or can only be produced incorrectly.
Due to inhibition of cell division, the fungi cannot reproduce. The active ingredient flucytosine (Ancotil®) is a so-called cytosine antimetabolite. It enters the fungal cell and is then converted by a specific enzyme (cytosine desmainase) before it is incorporated into the genetic material of the fungal cells.
It has a fungistatic effect, i.e. it inhibits fungal proliferation (remedy for fungal diseases). Flucytosin (antifungal agent) is administered as an infusion and is only effective in fungi that possess a specific enzyme (cytosine deaminase). Thus it is used with Candida, Cryptococcus and blackener fungi, which attack the skin and subcutis.
It is usually combined with the polyene amphotericin B. Side effects:The side effects are reversible and affect the gastrointestinal tract, increase in liver values (liver enzymes) and changes in blood composition. It should not be given for kidney, liver function and blood formation disorders (remedy for fungal diseases).
Griseofulvin
Griseofulvin is another drug among the antimycotics (remedies against fungal diseases). It is taken orally and is directed against microtubules. This means protein structures in the cells.
They are tubular and serve on the one hand to stabilize and transport within the cells, and on the other hand they have an important function in the division of cells (spindle apparatus). Griseofulvin disrupts the production and function of these important proteins. It accumulates in skin, nails and hair and is thus effective in fungal infections that attack these structures (dermatomycoses).
The side effects observed so far have mainly been disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract and skin changes. Disorders of the central nervous system or blood count changes (neutropenia) are rare. It should not be administered in cases of liver dysfunction, connective tissue diseases (collagenosis) or certain blood diseases (porphyria).
It also reduces the effect of anticoagulants (anticoagulants) and the pill (contraceptives). When taking griseofulvin, alcohol consumption should be avoided.
