Lecture Notes: Drugs Used to Treat Fungal and Viral Infections

Introduction

• Presenter: Dr. Cosby
• Focus: Fungal and viral infections

Fungal Infections

Overview

• Antifungal Drugs: Used to treat fungal infections.
• Immune System: Generally capable of fighting off fungal infections due to fungi's similarity to human cells.
• Super Infections: Can occur due to prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that destroy helpful bacteria, allowing fungi to thrive.

Types of Fungi

• Yeast: Unicellular fungi
• Other Fungi: Multicellular
• Normal Flora: Present orally and vaginally (e.g., candida)

Causes of Fungal Infections

• Antibiotic use leading to super infections
• Open wounds or specific orifices
• Contact with humans or animals
• Misuse of inhalers

Antifungal Drugs

• Types:
  • Fungicidal: Destroy fungi directly
  • Fungistatic: Inhibit synthesis allowing immune response
• Applications: Oral, topical, or vaginal (e.g., Lamisil, Tinactin, Monistat)

Types of Fungal Infections

Tinea Infections

• Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): Occurs on feet, treated with topical antifungals.
• Tinea Capitis: Affects scalp, common in children, treated with oral antifungals.
• Tinea Corporis (Ringworm): Affects skin, very contagious, treated with topical antifungals.
• Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): Affects groin, treated with topical antifungals.
• Tinea Ungium: Affects toenails, treated with topical or oral antifungals.
• Tinea Versicolor: Causes skin discoloration, often requires no treatment.

Candida Infections

• Vaginal and Oral Candidiasis: Yeast infections, treated with oral or topical antifungals.

Viral Infections

Overview

• Viruses: Small microorganisms, can be benign or severe.
• Treatment: Antivirals interfere with virus's DNA synthesis, narrow spectrum preferred.

Common Viral Infections

• Smallpox, chickenpox, shingles, Hepatitis B.
• Chemical similarity to RNA and DNA makes them hard to treat.

Antiviral Drugs

• Must be initiated early for efficiency.
• Common side effects: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

• Rising number of cases.
• Importance of education, awareness, and support for athletes.

Guidelines for Athletic Trainers

Identification and Referral

• Know when to refer out.
• Recognize signs and symptoms early.

Drug Resistance and Compliance

• Ensure complete antibiotic courses.
• Educate about potential drug allergies.

Role in Treatment

• Monitor compliance.
• Educate on over-the-counter treatments.

Conclusion

• Importance of understanding fungal and viral infections for treating athletes.
• Collaborative treatment approach with healthcare professionals.
• Preparation for exams and real-world applications.