Synergistic activity of dobutamine combined with azoles and its mechanism of action against strains of .

To evaluate the antifungal effect of dobutamine against as well as its synergism with azoles and its action on biofilm. The M27-A3 protocol and flow cytometry were used for elucidation of the possible mechanism of action. The tested isolates presented MICs ranging from 2 to 32 μg/ml for dobutamine, with fungistatic effect. A total of 82% of the strains showed synergism with fluconazole, with 90% showing synergism with itraconazole. The effect on biofilm formation was nonsignificant. Cytometry tests showed that dobutamine induced mitochondrial depolarization. Dobutamine has an antifungal effect on strains of and synergistic activity with azoles. This effect is probably mediated by increased oxidative damage to the membrane.