Fluconazole is primarily used to treat which type of infections?

Fluconazole is primarily used to treat fungal infections due to its mechanism as an antifungal agent. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. This action disrupts the integrity and function of the membrane, ultimately leading to cell death.

Fluconazole is effective against a variety of fungal pathogens, including Candida species, which are responsible for infections like thrush and vaginal candidiasis, as well as certain types of meningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. Its broad spectrum of activity makes it a key choice in treating infections caused by fungi.

The other categories of infections listed do not fall within the scope of fluconazole’s efficacy, as it is not effective against viral, parasitic, or bacterial infections. Each of these types of infections requires different classes of antimicrobial agents such as antivirals for viral infections, antiparasitics for parasitic infections, and antibiotics for bacterial infections.