Overview:
Nystatin is a commonly prescribed antifungal medication used to treat fungal or yeast infections. It is available as oral tablets, oral suspension (liquid), topical cream, topical powder, and topical ointment. Nystatin exhibits its action by killing the infection-causing fungus. Do not take this drug if you have a previous history of allergy or hypersensitivity to Nystatin or any other components of the medication. In case of skin rash or yellowing of skin or white eyes, report to the doctor immediately.
Drug Group:
Nystatin belongs to the class of drugs called polyenes. The drugs of this class kill the infection-causing fungus by forming pores in their cell membrane. The other medications in the polyene class include Amphotericin B, Trichomycin, Candicidin, and Pimaricin.
What Is Nystatin Used For?
Nystatin is widely used to treat and prevent fungal or yeast infections caused by the Candida species of fungus. It includes
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Candidal vulvovaginitis (infection in the vagina or vulva caused by Candida fungus)
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Candidiasis of the skin (skin infection caused by Candida fungus).
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Gastrointestinal candidiasis (infections in the stomach or intestine caused by Candida fungus).
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Oropharyngeal candidiasis (infection in the mouth or throat caused by Candida fungus)
How Does Nystatin Work?
Nystatin works by binding to a sterol called ergosterol present in the sensitive fungus's cell membrane. This binding will induce the membrane to form pores or channels, which will lead to the leaking of the cell components, which are crucial for the survival of the fungus. Thus, it will ultimately lead to the death of the fungus.
Onset of Action:
Nystatin is not absorbed (reaches the blood circulation) when taken orally or applied topically. It is eliminated through feces in its unchanged form. The onset of action of Nystatin is 24 to 72 hours.
Habit-Forming:
There are no reported habit-forming tendencies reported in individuals taking Nystatin.
Expiry Date:
Avoid taking this medicine after it expires. The expiry date will be provided on the back of the packet.
What Is the Dosage of Nystatin?
The dosing will depend upon the infection's severity and the medication response. Inform the doctor if any side effects are experienced and follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional carefully.
Nystatin is available in the following doses and dosage forms:
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Oral Suspension: 100000 U/(units)/1 ml.
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Oral Tablet: 500000 U.
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Topical Cream: 100000 U/1 gm.
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Topical Ointment: 100000 U/1gm.
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Topical Powder: 100000 U/1 gm.
The recommended dosing of Nystatin for various conditions is as follows:
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How to Use Nystatin?
Oral Suspension: Shake well before use and protect from freezing.
Cream or Ointment: Apply liberally on the affected area.
Powder: For foot infections, dust the powder on the feet, as well as on footwear.
General Information:
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The duration of the therapy will be based on the kind and severity of the infection.
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Enquire the physician or pharmacist to explain instructions on the prescription label and carefully follow them.
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Use the medication as prescribed. Never take it in larger or fewer amounts or more frequently than directed by the doctor.
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During the first few days of therapy, the symptoms of the disease may subside. Alert the healthcare provider if the symptoms do not disappear or worsen.
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Keep taking Nystatin until the doctor instructs the patient to stop.
Missed Dose:
If a dose is missed while taking Nystatin, take it as soon as possible. But if the time for the next dose is near, do not take two tablets together, as it might result in severe adverse reactions. Just skip the missed dose and take the next dosage.
Overdose:
In case of overdose and usual symptoms arise, seek medical help or contact the nearest poison control center immediately.
What Are the Contraindications of Nystatin?
Nystatin is contraindicated (usage strictly to be avoided) if there is a history of allergy to the medication or its components.
What Are the Drug Warnings and Precautions?
It is important to seek advice from the doctor if any of the following conditions are present, before taking Nystatin:
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Hypersensitivity: Inform the doctor if the patient has previously experienced an allergy or hypersensitivity to Nystatin or other polyene medications.
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Diabetes: Nystatin contains sugar. It can increase blood sugar levels. Monitoring may be required.
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Dental Wears: Keep the denture wears clean and maintain them while on therapy.
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Pregnancy: Nystatin may harm the fetus if administered during pregnancy. Therefore, if the patient is in the first three months of the pregnancy or intends to get pregnant, inform the physician to know if the patient is expecting.
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Breastfeeding: Talk to the physician before starting the therapy if you are breastfeeding.
What Are the Side Effects of Nystatin?
The common side effects while using this medication include
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Skin rash.
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Irritation in the mouth.
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Stomach ache.
These effects can disappear in a few days. Consult the doctor or pharmacist if they are more severe or persistent.
The more serious side effects include
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Muscle pain.
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Wheezing.
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Increased heart rate.
Seek medical help right away if any of these serious side effects are experienced.
Also, in case of symptoms of hypersensitivity (hives, extreme rash, breathing difficulty, and mouth or tongue swelling), get medical attention immediately.
What Are the Interactions of Nystatin?
The information on interactions with Nystatin is listed below:
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With Other Drugs: There are no reported interactions of Nystatin with other medications in the available dosage forms.
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With Alcohol: Drinking alcohol has not been shown to affect the action of Nystatin negatively.
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With Food: There are no specific dietary restrictions while on Nystatin therapy.
What Are the Common Brand Names or Trade Names of Nystatin?
The common brands of Nystatin available in the market are:
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Mycostatin cream.
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Mycostatin ointment.
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Nyaderm cream.
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Nyaderm ointment.
