Bifonazole is a synthetic imidazole antifungal agent with the CAS number 60628-96-8. It is a topically-active antifungal compound that belongs to the azole class of antifungals. Bifonazole works by inhibiting the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, a key component in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. Ergosterol is an essential component of fungal cell membranes, and by blocking its synthesis, bifonazole effectively disrupts fungal cell membrane integrity, leading to fungal cell death.

This compound is widely studied for its unique mode of action and applications in fungal research. Bifonazole is available in pharmaceutical-grade quality and is used both in research settings and in topical therapeutic formulations for treating various fungal infections.

## What Are the Benefits?

### Broad-Spectrum Antifungal Activity

One of the primary benefits of bifonazole is its broad-spectrum antifungal activity. It demonstrates effective inhibition against:

– **Dermatophytes**: Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species
– **Yeasts**: Candida species
– **Malassezia furfur**: The causative agent of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
– **Other fungi**: Various molds affecting skin and nails

### Novel Mechanism of Action

Bifonazole offers a distinct antifungal mechanism. It inhibits ergosterol synthesis by targeting the cytochrome P450 51 enzyme. This inhibition leads to ergosterol depletion, damage to cell membrane integrity, ROS-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis in fungal cells, and complete fungal cell death.

### Topical Application

As a topically-active antifungal, bifonazole is particularly suitable for treating superficial fungal infections of the skin and nails. This topical application minimizes systemic absorption and reduces the risk of systemic side effects.

### Anti-inflammatory Properties

Research has also demonstrated that bifonazole exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation associated with fungal skin infections.

## What Are the Uses?

### Treatment of Dermatophytosis

Bifonazole is primarily used in the treatment of various dermatophytic infections, including tinea pedis (athlete foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea corporis (ringworm), and tinea manuum (hand fungus).

### Candidiasis Treatment

The compound is effective against cutaneous candidiasis and other yeast-related skin infections.

### Seborrheic Dermatitis

Bifonazole activity against Malassezia furfur makes it useful in treating seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

### Research Applications

In research settings, bifonazole serves as an important tool for studying fungal cell membrane synthesis and ergosterol biosynthesis pathways. It is used as a pharmaceutical secondary standard and certified reference material.

### Veterinary Use

Bifonazole has shown effectiveness in treating experimental dermatophytic and Candida infections in animals.

## Safety and Side Effects

### Common Side Effects

– Local skin irritation at the application site
– Mild burning or stinging sensation
– Redness or erythema
– Contact dermatitis (rare)

### Precautions

– Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
– Do not use on broken or damaged skin
– Discontinue use if severe irritation occurs
– Consult healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or lactation

## Chemical Specifications

– **CAS Number**: 60628-96-8
– **Molecular Formula**: C18H14Cl2N2
– **Molecular Weight**: 329.23 g/mol
– **Purity**: ≥98%
– **Appearance**: White to off-white crystalline powder
– **Solubility**: Practically insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
– **Storage**: Room temperature, protected from light

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What is the mechanism of action of bifonazole?**
Bifonazole works by inhibiting the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, which is essential for ergosterol synthesis in fungal cells. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes compromised, leading to cell death.

**Is bifonazole safe for topical use?**
Yes, bifonazole is considered safe for topical application when used as directed. It has minimal systemic absorption, making it suitable for treating superficial skin infections.

**What types of infections can bifonazole treat?**
Bifonazole is effective against various superficial fungal infections including athlete foot, jock itch, ringworm, cutaneous candidiasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.

## Why Choose Our Bifonazole?

When sourcing bifonazole for research or pharmaceutical applications, we provide:

– **High Purity**: Pharmaceutical-grade quality (≥98% purity)
– **Quality Assurance**: Each batch is tested and certified
– **Competitive Pricing**: Factory-direct pricing for bulk orders
– **Reliable Supply**: Consistent availability
– **Technical Support**: Documentation and support included

## Related Products

– Clotrimazole – Another imidazole antifungal
– Ketoconazole – Broad-spectrum antifungal agent
– Miconazole – Topical antifungal medication
– Fluconazole – Triazole antifungal agent

*This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.*