Abafungin (INN) is a broad-spectrum arylguanidines-class antifungal agent with a novel mechanism of action for the treatment of dermatomycoses. Abasol is a topical cream formulation of abafungin by York Pharma.

History

Abafungin was first synthesized at Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany. A study of H2-antagonists related to famotidine, resulted in the discovery of its antifungal properties. Its development seems to have been discontinued in 2009.

Mechanism of action

Unlike imidazole- and triazole-class antifungals, abafungin directly impairs the fungal cell membrane. In addition, abafungin inhibits the enzyme sterol 24-C-methyltransferase, modifying the composition of the fungal membrane. Abafungin has antibiotic activity against gram-positive bacteria as well as sporicidal activity.