Nystatin
Information about Nystatin
Nystatin uses
Nystatin is used in the treatment of fungal skin infections.
How nystatin works
Nystatin is an antifungal medication. It kills fungi by destroying the fungal cell membrane.
Common side effects of nystatin
Application site reactions (burning, irritation, itching and redness)
Content Details
Last updated on:
27 Dec 2019 | 01:08 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Nystatin
- Talk to your doctor before taking nystatin if you have a fungal infection in the lungs or on the skin.
- Ensure that the doses of nystatin are equally spaced throughout the day.
- For infection of the mouth (oral thrush), try to keep the nystatin solution in contact with the affected areas as long as possible.
- Continue taking nystatin at the prescribed dose for at least 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared.
- Tell your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Nystatin
Nystatin
Q. What is Nystatin? What can it be used for?
Nystatin is an antifungal medicine which is used for the treatment against a wide variety of yeasts and yeast-like fungi. Nystatin exerts its antifungal action by damaging the cell membrane of fungi like Candida, thereby stopping its growth. It is used for the prevention and treatment of Candidal infections of the oral cavity, esophagus and intestinal tract. Most commonly, it is used to treat oral thrush (affecting inner lining of mouth) caused by Candida albicans. Nystatin is not active against bacteria, protozoa, or viruses.
Q. Does Nystatin treat ringworms?
Nystatin is not approved for the treatment of ringworm. Nystatin is more effective against yeast infections as compared to the fungus which causes ringworm. Antifungal agents like terbinafine, fluconazole, clotrimazole, miconazole can be used to treat ringworm infections.
Q. Can Nystatin be used on the face?
Yes, Nystatin can be used on face, but do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor. Take care not to apply it in or around your eyes. Also remember that it is ineffective against many common fungal infections and active only against yeast infections. Additionally, it should not be used on bacterial or virus infections.
Q. How do you use Nystatin cream?
Wash the affected area and dry it properly before application of the cream. Apply Nystatin cream to the affected area twice daily until complete healing or as directed by the physician. Remember to wash your hands after applying the medicine. Do not cover or bandage the affected area unless directed by your doctor. When used for diaper rash in infants, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Take care while using this medicine on your face. Avoid any contact with the eyes. Nystatin cream is preferred over ointment in areas like the armpits, the anogenital region, skin folds of the breasts and between the fingers and toes.