Imidazoles and their derivatives have been proven very effective in the treatment of fungal infections. Butoconazole nitrate is an important addition to this class of antifungal agents. It was introduced to the market in for the short-term management of vaginal infections caused by Candida species. It has high activity, against Candida albicans in vitro and is very effective clinically. Butoconazole nitrate is an imidazole derivative with potent antifungal activity in vivo and in vitro (Figure). When synthesized, it exists as a racemic mixture in which both components are optical isomers and equally active.