Walsh & Hoyt: Imidazoles and Triazoles

Azoles, also called imidazoles, are synthetic organic compounds that are characterized by at least one five-member ring that usually contains two nitrogen molecules (the azole ring). This ring is responsible for the antifungal properties of these substances. The addition of a third nitrogen to the azole ring has created a family of drugs called triazoles. Some of the triazoles have an enhanced antifungal spectrum, better penetration of the CNS, and a less adverse effect upon human sterol metabolism.