Nystatin
Oral Candidiasis, Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Polyene Antifungal
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Nystatin
Summary
Nystatin is used to treat fungal infections in the mouth, stomach, and intestines. It's particularly effective against a range of yeasts and yeast-like fungi including Candida albicans.
Nystatin works by binding to sterols in the cell membrane of fungi. This causes a change in the membrane's permeability, resulting in leakage of intracellular components. This effectively stops the growth of the fungi, treating the infection.
For adults, the usual dose of Nystatin tablets is one to two tablets, taken three times daily. For children, the dosage varies based on age and condition. Infants typically receive 2 mL four times daily, while older children and adults take 4 to 6 mL four times daily.
Common side effects of Nystatin include diarrhea, nausea, and stomach bloating or pain. Serious adverse effects, though rare, include irritation or burning of the mouth, hives, rash, itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Nystatin is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should not be used for systemic mycoses. If irritation or sensitization occurs, discontinue use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use it only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nystatin work?
Nystatin works by binding to sterols in the cell membrane of fungi, causing a change in membrane permeability. This results in leakage of intracellular components, effectively stopping the growth of the fungi and treating the infection.
Is Nystatin effective?
Nystatin is an antifungal medication that effectively treats fungal infections in the mouth, stomach, and intestines. It works by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, causing leakage of intracellular components and inhibiting fungal growth. Clinical studies and its long-standing use support its effectiveness.
What is Nystatin?
Nystatin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections in the mouth, stomach, and intestines. It works by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, causing leakage of intracellular components and inhibiting fungal growth. It is effective against a wide range of yeasts and yeast-like fungi.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nystatin?
Nystatin should be used for at least 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared to prevent relapse. The exact duration depends on the infection's severity and your doctor's advice. Always complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better.
How do I dispose of Nystatin?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Nystatin?
Nystatin can be taken with or without food. For the suspension, shake well before use, place half of the dose in each side of the mouth, and hold it as long as possible before swallowing. There are no specific food restrictions unless advised by your doctor.
How long does it take for Nystatin to start working?
Nystatin may start to relieve symptoms within a few days of starting treatment. However, it is important to continue using it for the full prescribed duration to ensure the infection is completely treated and to prevent relapse.
How should I store Nystatin?
Store Nystatin in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom or allow it to freeze. Keep it out of reach of children and dispose of it properly through a take-back program if no longer needed.
What is the usual dose of Nystatin?
For adults, the usual dose of Nystatin tablets is one to two tablets (500,000 to 1,000,000 units) taken three times daily. For children, the dosage varies based on age and condition, but typically, for oral suspension, infants receive 2 mL four times daily, while older children and adults take 4 to 6 mL four times daily. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nystatin with other prescription drugs?
Nystatin has no major or moderate interactions with other prescription drugs. It is generally safe to use with other medications. However, it's always important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and conditions before starting Nystatin. This ensures they can provide the best advice and monitor for any potential interactions or adverse effects.
Can Nystatin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Nystatin is excreted in human milk. Due to the lack of data, caution is advised when using Nystatin while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to determine if the benefits outweigh any potential risks.
Can Nystatin be taken safely while pregnant?
Nystatin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as there are no adequate studies on its effects on fetal harm. Since gastrointestinal absorption is negligible, the risk is considered low, but it should be prescribed by a doctor who will weigh the benefits against potential risks.
Does Nystatin have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Nystatin may cause some adverse effects, though they are generally mild. Common ones include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Rarely, it can cause serious allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or swelling, which require immediate medical attention. It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider and not to stop taking the medicine without consulting them.
Does Nystatin have any safety warnings?
Nystatin comes with safety warnings, primarily concerning allergic reactions. If you experience symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately, as these could indicate a severe allergic reaction. It's also important to use Nystatin exactly as prescribed to avoid ineffective treatment or resistance. If you notice any unusual symptoms or if your condition doesn't improve, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nystatin?
Most people tolerate Nystatin well, and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. There are no well-established interactions between Nystatin and alcohol that would interfere with the medicine's effectiveness or cause harm. Therefore, moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe while taking Nystatin. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms, it's always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Nystatin?
Nystatin does not typically limit the ability to exercise. However, if you experience any side effects that affect your physical activity, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, consult your doctor for guidance.
Is it safe to stop Nystatin?
Nystatin is typically used for treating temporary or acute conditions, such as fungal infections. Stopping Nystatin abruptly may lead to the infection not being fully treated, which could cause symptoms to return or worsen. There are no known withdrawal or rebound symptoms associated with stopping Nystatin. However, it's crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider to ensure the infection is fully resolved. Always consult with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Is Nystatin addictive?
Nystatin has no known potential for dependence or addiction. It is an antifungal medication used to treat infections and does not affect the brain or body in a way that leads to habit formation. Therefore, there are no behaviors or warning signs of addiction associated with Nystatin. You can use it as prescribed by your healthcare provider without concern for addiction.
Is Nystatin safe for the elderly?
Nystatin is generally considered safe for the elderly. There are no specific risks or negative outcomes more frequently observed in elderly individuals compared to younger adults. However, as with any medication, it's important to exercise caution and vigilance when starting Nystatin in elderly populations. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure it's appropriate for the individual's health condition and to monitor for any potential side effects.
What are the most common side effects of Nystatin?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Nystatin include nausea, diarrhea, stomach upset, and skin irritation. These are generally mild and not very frequent. It's important to note that new symptoms can occur when starting any new medicine, and they may not be related to the medicine itself. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication, as they can help determine the cause of new symptoms and advise on the best course of action.
Who should avoid taking Nystatin?
Nystatin is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components. It should not be used for systemic mycoses. If irritation or sensitization occurs, discontinue use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use it only if clearly needed, and under medical supervision.
