What is a common adverse effect associated with azole antifungals?

Azole antifungals, which include drugs like fluconazole and itraconazole, are known to commonly cause gastrointestinal disturbances as an adverse effect. These disturbances can manifest as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. The mechanism behind this side effect is linked to the azole's effects on the gastrointestinal tract and its interaction with the liver, where these medications are metabolized. This can lead to varying levels of absorption, digestion, and overall gastrointestinal comfort in patients.

Other potential adverse effects associated with azole antifungals typically occur but are less common. For example, while neurotoxicity can occur with some antifungals, it is not a hallmark of azoles specifically. Similarly, cardiac arrhythmias are more closely associated with certain other medications and less so with azoles. Muscle toxicity is more pertinent to other classes of medications, such as statins or certain antiviral agents, rather than azole antifungals.