What is the main use of antifungal medications?

The main use of antifungal medications is to treat fungal infections. These medications are specifically designed to target and eliminate fungi or inhibit their growth in the body. Fungal infections can range from superficial skin infections, such as athlete's foot or ringworm, to more severe systemic infections that can affect various organs. Antifungals work by disrupting the cell membranes of fungi, interfering with their replication, or inhibiting their metabolic processes, making them effective in managing conditions caused by various fungal pathogens.

In contrast, bacterial infections necessitate the use of antibiotics, not antifungals, as antibiotics target bacterial cells. Similarly, viral infections require antiviral medications, which function by targeting specific stages of the viral life cycle. Lastly, antifungal medications are unrelated to treating psychotic conditions, which are managed through psychiatric medications such as antipsychotics. Therefore, the focus on treating fungal infections illustrates the specific role and utility of antifungal medications in medical treatments.