Zeamatin, clotrimazole and nikkomycin Z in therapy of a Candida vaginitis model.

OBJECTIVE To study the interaction of antifungal drugs in topical therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Local therapy of Candida vaginitis with drugs alone and in combination was examined in a murine model. Zeamatin, a natural plant-derived antifungal protein, was tested alone and in combination with an azole, clotrimazole or nikkomycin Z, a chitin synthase inhibitor. RESULTS Whereas alone, zeamatin was ineffective, nikkomycin Z was effective only when dosed multiple times per day, and clotrimazole efficacy was variable when administered in experimental vehicles (unlike the complex and undefined commercial preparation), zeamatin enhanced the efficacy of either of the other two drugs when they were given in combination. CONCLUSION Drug interactions between novel drugs with unique mechanisms of action should be explored further, and may lead to more potent regimens.