Which type of medication is indicated by the suffix -azole?

The suffix -azole is commonly associated with antifungal medications. This suffix indicates that the drug belongs to a class of compounds that specifically target fungal infections. Antifungal medications work by inhibiting the growth or reproduction of fungi, helping to treat conditions caused by these pathogens, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and systemic fungal infections.

The other choices are distinguished by different suffixes or drug classes: antiviral medications typically do not share this suffix, as they target viruses through different mechanisms, analgesics are pain relievers that can include a variety of drug classes, and beta blockers are used to manage heart conditions and typically end with the suffix -olol. Thus, the association of -azole with antifungal drugs emphasizes its specific application in treating fungal infections, reinforcing the correct identification of this medication class.