azole antifungal, any of a group of antifungals characterized by the presence of an azole ring structure, which includes the triazoles and the imidazoles (qq.v.). They are usually fungistatic but can be fungicidal at higher concentrations and act by interfering with the enzyme activity of cytochrome P-450, decreasing the production of ergosterol and so damaging the cell membrane by altering its permeability and functions.
