What medication is commonly used to treat candidiasis in HIV patients?

Fluconazole is the medication commonly used to treat candidiasis, particularly in patients with HIV. Candidiasis, also known as thrush when it occurs in the mouth, is an opportunistic infection that can occur in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV. Fluconazole belongs to the class of antifungal medications known as azoles and is effective against various fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species.

In HIV patients, due to their compromised immune systems, the risk of fungal infections increases significantly. Fluconazole is preferred because it has good oral bioavailability, which makes it effective for treating both esophageal and systemic candidiasis. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death.

Other medications mentioned are not appropriate for treating candidiasis. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used primarily against bacterial infections and is not effective against fungi. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation, while loperamide is an antidiarrheal medication. Thus, fluconazole is the correct choice for treating fungal infections like candidiasis in HIV patients.