Nystatin is a medication used to treat fungal infections of the Candida species in areas such as the skin, mouth, vagina or intestinal tract. Candida is a yeast fungus that primarily causes infections such as oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections and diaper rash. Sold under many brand names--including Mycostatin, Nilstat and Nystex--Nystatin treats candida infections with minimal side effects.
Indications
Fungal infections of the Candida species are quite common. The body naturally carries this yeast microorganism. With increased proliferation or growth, Candida can cause an infection within or upon the body, in areas of increased temperature and moisture or in patients with weakened immune systems. Nystatin can also treat Cryptococcus, another type of fungal yeast, and can be used prophylactically to prevent yeast infections in patients with AIDS or those undergoing chemotherapy.
Function
Nystatin acts to kill the Candida fungus by puncturing holes in the cellular membrane, effectively combating the Candida infection within 24 to 48 hours.
Dosage and Storage
Nystatin is available only by prescription in liquid, lozenge, powder, tablet or cream forms, according to Medline Plus. Dosage varies from patient to patient and according to the location of the infection and its severity. Patients should follow the guidelines prescribed by a physician and avoid doubling dosage if a dose is missed. Continue the Nystatin prescription entirely even if symptoms dissipate.
Oral tablets and liquid Nystatin should be stored at room temperature; lozenges, powder, cream and vaginal tablets should be stored in the refrigerator.
Side Effects
Side effects from Nystatin are infrequent, but they can occur. Skin reactions from the vaginal tablet or cream forms of Nystatin include itching, irritation and burning. Side effects from oral tablets and liquid Nystatin may include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain and skin rash, the U.S. National Library of Medicine notes. Adverse side effects require immediate medical assistance and include swelling of the face, rapid heart rate, hives, muscle pain, difficulty breathing and Stevens-Johnson syndrome--a severe skin hypersensitivity reaction.
Precautions
Nystatin should not be taken by those with known allergies to the medication, and contact with the eyes should be avoided, according to the Merck Manual. Nystatin is also only prescribed to patients over the age of 1 year, and it is not known if the medicine is safe to administer during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. Nystatin contains sucrose; therefore, diabetics should use Nystatin cautiously. The medication may also diminish the effect of Saccharomyces boulardii, a probiotic used to treat gastrointestinal disorders.
