When is fluconazole typically prescribed?

• A. For bacterial infections
• B. For viral infections
• C. For fungal infections
• D. For parasitic infections

Answer: (C)

Fluconazole is an antifungal medication that is primarily used to treat infections caused by fungi. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. This leads to cell membrane disruption and ultimately the death of the fungal cell.

Fluconazole is effective against a variety of fungal pathogens, including Candida species, Cryptococcus neoformans, and others. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as oropharyngeal and esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcal meningitis, and prophylactically to prevent fungal infections in immunocompromised patients.

The medication is not effective against bacterial infections, viral infections, or parasitic infections, as each of these types of pathogens requires different treatment approaches. Therefore, fluconazole is uniquely indicated for fungal infections, making it the appropriate choice in this context.