Amphotericin B. Still the 'gold standard' for antifungal therapy

Amphotericin B (Fungizone) remains the cornerstone of antifungal therapy because of its broad-spectrum fungicidal activity and rapid onset of action. Ketoconazole (Nizoral) and the new triazoles are welcome additions to the therapeutic armamentarium but do not replace amphotericin B. Adverse side effects of amphotericin B treatment are usually manageable and often preventable. Careful attention to detail reduces immediate toxicity and allows completion of the desired therapeutic course without an undue risk of permanent nephrotoxicity.