Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Nystatin

Nystatin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Nystatin?

Nystatin is an antifungal medicine that is prescribed for oral thrush and skin infections caused by fungi, including yeast. It can be taken either orally or applied to the infected areas of the skin by fungus. 

The medicine works by stopping the division of fungi that can cause an infection like oral thrush. It is equally effective against yeast infections in the mouth, the gut, or the skin.

What are the uses of Nystatin?

Nystatin is prescribed to prevent and treat fungal skin infections and oral thrush. If not treated, oral thrush can spread from your mouth to other parts of your body, which can be dangerous for your overall health. It also helps treat yeast infections in the stomach, mouth, toes, or anywhere on the skin. It protects against new fungal infections as well. 

It is available as an ointment, suspension, and powder.

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    What are the side effects of Nystatin?

    This medicine is usually benign and safe. However, it can cause side effects like-

    • Diarrhoea
    • Nausea 
    • Vomiting
    • Stomach pain

    A few rare side effects associated with Nystatin are swelling of the skin and itching in the area you have applied it to. You may get a rash, facial swelling, muscle pain, dermatitis, allergic reaction, or experience difficulty speaking. 

    Approach your doctor immediately. He may prescribe another medicine for your fungal infection.

    What is Nystatin

    Uses of Nystatin

    Side effects of Nystatin

    References

    1. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618065.html#:~:text=Topical%20nystatin%20is%20used%20to,of%20fungi%20that%20cause%20infection.
    2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19293-nystatin-skin-cream-or-ointment

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Nystatin

    It is a simple anti-fungal medicine. It is not an antibiotic or a steroid that can fight a bacterial infection. It works by killing the fungus causing an infection in your body by making holes in its cell membrane. This makes the fungus cell contents leak out, killing it.

    The medicine is taken as an oral suspension to combat oral thrush. All you have to do is to take a certain amount with a full glass of water four times a day for the prescribed number of days. Swish the suspension in your mouth so that the medicine reaches all corners inside.

    The medicine falls under the class of antifungal medications called polyenes. It works by stopping the division of fungi that can cause infection like oral thrush and skin infections. It acts by making holes in the cell walls of the fungi. It comes as an ointment, liquid or suspension, and powder.

    Yes, but only as a side effect. Most people rarely encounter side effects on Nystatin. Apart from diarrhea, it can cause nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, skin rash, hives, itching, redness, and swelling too. Take the advice of your doctor if you experience any side effects, especially if it is extreme.

    You must not have any water or anything to eat till 30 minutes after having Nystatin suspension that is usually prescribed for treating oral thrush. Swish the suspension inside your mouth for a minute or two, so the medicine can come into contact with the fungus for longer to work better.

    Nystatin is safe for pregnant women. It’s safe if you are trying for a baby too, as it does not affect fertility. But still, do disclose that you are pregnant to your doctor.
    Even though it’s safe while you are breastfeeding, make sure your baby doesn't ingest the medicine while clamping.

    Nystatin suspension for treating fungal infections in the mouth has to be taken at least four times a day after food. You must swish the liquid in your mouth for a few minutes so that it comes into contact with the fungi there and then swallow, not spit it out.

    You may brush your teeth before taking Nystatin drops, but do not brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes afterward as it will wash the medicine out of your mouth too soon. The suspension contains sugar, so brushing is advised 30 minutes after taking Nystatin drops, especially at night.

    You can store it at room temperature (15-30 degrees C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze the medicine at any point or keep it in your bathroom cabinet.

    Always throw it away after the expiration date and shake it well before using it.

    As a rule of the thumb, Nystatin swish and swallow takes around a week to treat oral thrush. But, do continue taking it for two days after this to ensure that all the yeast has been killed and your infection doesn't come back. Just follow your doctor's advice at all times.

    Yes, you can drink alcohol while using Nystatin. Alcohol does not affect how this medicine works. However, if you're taking Nystatin suspension, do not consume anything, including alcohol, water, or food for 30 minutes after taking it. This will wash the medicine out of your mouth before it starts acting.

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