Fluoxetine Inhibits Respiratory Growth of Candida glabrata and has Cytocidal Activity

Background: Fluoxetine is a widely prescribed antidepressant that has associated antifungal activity. Methods: This study examined the growth inhibitory and cytotoxic effects of fluoxetine on Candida glabrata. Results: Fluoxetine inhibited growth of C. glabrata on media containing glucose as a carbon source: the inhibition was much greater when ethanol was the carbon source. In hypoosmotic conditions fluoxetine caused death of C. glabrata in one hour. Conclusion: Fluoxetine inhibits fermentative and mitochondrial function of C. glabrata. It rapidly kills C. glabrata in hypoosmotic conditions.