Final answer:
The class of antifungal drugs that inhibits ergosterol synthesis and can inhibit cytochrome P450 are azole antifungals, particularly imidazoles and triazoles, like miconazole and fluconazole. Allylamines like terbinafine also inhibit ergosterol biosynthesis but at an earlier stage in the synthesis pathway.
Step-by-step explanation:
The class of antifungal drugs that inhibits ergosterol synthesis and may inhibit cytochrome P450 enzymes are the azole antifungals, specifically the imidazoles and triazoles. These drugs work by interfering with the synthesis of ergosterol, a critical component of fungal cell membranes, which is analogous to cholesterol in human cells. Examples of these drugs include miconazole and fluconazole, which are used to treat various systemic yeast infections. Triazoles are noted for exhibiting more selective toxicity and are associated with fewer side effects compared to imidazoles.
Allylamines, such as terbinafine (Lamisil), are also inhibitors of ergosterol biosynthesis but act at an earlier step in the pathway. They are used for both topical and oral treatment of fungal infections like athlete's foot and nail fungus. However, they can be linked to the rare but serious side effect of hepatotoxicity.