Nystatin is a prescription antifungal medication that comes in several different forms. It is used to treat a variety of different fungal infections, such as thrush and yeast diaper rash.
(Click Nystatin Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Nystatin products are made by numerous different manufacturers.
Nystatin works by binding to ergosterol, an important component of the fungal cell membrane. This changes the fungal cell membrane, making it more "leaky" and allowing for the leakage of important cellular contents to occur.
Even when taken by mouth, nystatin is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream (it stays in the digestive tract and is excreted through the feces). This means that it is not good for fungal infections other than those on the surface of the body (which can be treated with ointments, creams, or powders) or those of the digestive tract (which can be treated with oral forms of nystatin).
Some general considerations include the following:
- Nystatin comes in cream, ointment, powder, tablet, vaginal tablet, and suspension (oral liquid) forms.
- The specific instructions for using this medication will vary, depending mostly on the form of the medication.
- Be sure to shake nystatin oral suspension well before each dose. It is usually recommended to swish the oral suspension well before swallowing it (which is why this product is often referred to as "nystatin swish and swallow").
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Be sure to take it for the full amount of time that your healthcare provider recommends, even if the infection seems to have cleared already.
Nystatin Dosing Information
The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- The particular nystatin product
- Your age
- Other medications you may be taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, nystatin may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include, but are not limited to:
- Skin irritation (for the skin products)
- Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting (for the oral products).
(Click Nystatin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Potential Drug Interactions With Nystatin
Nystatin is not expected to interact significantly with other medications, since it is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream (see Nystatin Drug Interactions).
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Using It?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
An overdose with this medicine is unlikely to cause dangerous problems. Nevertheless, if you happen to take an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Nystatin?
If you forget to take your dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Nystatin products (including the oral suspension) should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
The medication is available in the following forms and strengths:
Some references may list other forms or strengths of nystatin, but such products have been discontinued and are no longer available.
Is There a Generic Version of Nystatin?
This medication is available in generic form.
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