Abstract

Ashish Jain, Pragya Sharma, Dr. Shailesh Jain, Dr. Rita Mourya

ABSTRACT

Topical antifungal creams represent the first-line treatment for superficial fungal infections, offering targeted therapy with reduced systemic side effects. This review examines the active pharmaceutical ingredients that determine therapeutic efficacy, their mechanisms of action, and recent advances in formulation science. Seven major classes of topical antifungals are currently used, each with distinct mechanisms targeting fungal cell membrane synthesis or integrity. Clinical studies demonstrate significant efficacy differences between drug classes, with allylamines showing superior cure rates compared to azoles in certain indications. Novel delivery systems including nanoparticles, liposomes, and solid lipid nanoparticles are emerging to enhance skin penetration and therapeutic outcomes. Understanding the molecular basis of antifungal action and formulation science is essential for optimizing treatment selection and developing next-generation topical therapies.