Nystatin is a antifungal medication that is very effective against infections of the skin, mouth, vagina and intestinal tract, states Medline Plus, a National Institute of Health website. Nystatin comes in pill form, as a liquid, a lozenge, a cream, a powder or an ointment. The pill, liquid, and lozenge are all oral forms of the drug and treat infections of the mouth or intestinal disease. Oral nystatin treatment has some adverse side effects, and a patient should become aware of these effects prior to taking the medication.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is one of the more common side effects associated with oral nystatin, reports Drugs.com. The diarrhea is usually not serious and rarely requires medical attention. This side effect will usually lessen as the patient continues to take the medication. If the diarrhea interferes with the patient's daily routine, then an antidiarrheal agent can be given.
Nausea and Vomiting
Oral nystatin can cause nausea and vomiting, according to MayoClinic.com. The medication can irritate the lining of the digestive system and this can lead to nausea and vomiting. The symptoms usually disappear over time because the patient's body is adjusting to the drug. If these adverse effects continue to bother the patient, they should seek medical assistance. Patients suffering from both persistent vomiting and severe diarrhea should keep hydrated, as these conditions can lead to serious dehydration.
Stomach Pain
In some patients, stomach pain is an adverse effect of taking oral nystatin, notes Medline Plus. The pain is localized to the upper part of the abdomen and usually proves mild. The patient may notice the pain start to fade over time. Usually by the third to fourth day of treatment the patient no longer complains of an upset stomach. If the pain persists, patients can take mild pain relievers, such as ibuprofen. In rare cases, the pain can become severe. Patients suffering from severe abdominal pain directly after using oral nystatin should seek emergency medical care.
Severe Allergic Reactions
Despite rigorous allergy testing, some patients who have an allergy to nystatin may receive the drug. This is a serious medical emergency that will require immediate care. Severe allergic reactions include, a skin rash or hives, difficulty breathing, itching, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue and a sense of tightness in the chest. This allergic reaction can occur in patients taking any form of oral nystatin. Once a patient has developed an allergic reaction to nystatin, he should never receive nystatin again.
