# Therapeutic Repurposing of Sertraline: Evidence for Its Antifungal Activity from In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Studies

## TL;DR

Sertraline, an antidepressant, shows antifungal potential against drug-resistant fungi like Candida auris in lab and animal studies, but its clinical effectiveness remains uncertain.

## Contribution

This paper consolidates preclinical and clinical evidence for sertraline's antifungal activity, particularly against C. auris, and identifies gaps for clinical translation.

## Key findings

- Sertraline shows activity against Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida species, including anti-biofilm effects and synergy with antifungals.
- Mechanistic evidence suggests mitochondrial dysfunction and membrane disruption as possible antifungal mechanisms.
- Clinical trials show mixed results, with limited survival benefit in cryptococcal meningitis and pharmacokinetic limitations at standard doses.

## Abstract

Sertraline, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), has emerged as a candidate for therapeutic repurposing due to its reported antifungal activity. We systematically reviewed in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence up to July 2025 (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science). As a result, 322 records were screened and 63 studies were found to meet the inclusion criteria (PRISMA 2020). We close a critical gap by consolidating relevant evidence on Candida auris, including preclinical in vivo models, which have been under-represented in previous summaries. Outcomes included minimum inhibitory and fungicidal concentrations (MIC/MFC), biofilm inhibition, fungal burden, survival, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters. Preclinical data indicate its activity against clinically relevant fungi—particularly Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida spp., including C. auris—as well as consistent anti-biofilm effects and synergy with amphotericin B, fluconazole, micafungin, or voriconazole. Mechanistic evidence implicates mitochondrial dysfunction, membrane perturbation, impaired protein synthesis, and calcium homeostasis disruption. However, its potential for clinical translation remains uncertain: in cryptococcal meningitis, small phase II studies suggested improved early fungicidal activity, whereas a phase III randomized trial did not demonstrate a benefit regarding survival. Pharmacokinetic constraints at conventional doses, the absence of an intravenous formulation, and safety considerations at higher doses further limit its immediate applicability. Overall, the available evidence supports sertraline as a promising adjuvant candidate, rather than a stand-alone antifungal. Future research should define PK/PD targets, optimize doses and formulations, and evaluate rational combinations through rigorously designed trials, particularly for multidrug-resistant and biofilm-associated infections.