Nystatin is an antifungal medication usually prescribed for the treatment of various fungal infections of the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina and intestines. It may also be prescribed for other health conditions. Nystatin is available for use topically or systemically. Some common side effects of Nystatin include skin irritation and stomach upset, but rarely, dangerous side effects occur.
Allergic Reaction
Allergic reaction is a serious and potentially fatal side effect of Nystatin. It is a natural immunologic response of the body to a substance it perceives as foreign. In this instance, the individual's body perceives Nystatin as a threat to the host and therefore mounts a reaction against it. Allergic reactions may present with symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling around the face and neck region, rash dyspnea, difficulty breathing and feeling faint or dizzy.
This is considered an emergent condition and therefore requires immediate medical intervention. The individual's respiratory and cardiovascular systems are compromised, and the result can be fatal without immediate medical attention.
Steven-Johnson Syndrome
According to the Mayo Clinic, Steven-Johnson Syndrome is a serious hypersensitivity reaction. It results from a reaction to a medication, an infection or physical stimuli such as radiation. This syndrome can present with symptoms such as hives, swelling of the face and tongue, fever, sore throat, pain, peeling or sloughing of skin, blisters and skin rash.
This disorder is life-threatening since it compromises the individual's immune system. Immediate medical attention is therefore needed.
Contact Dermatitis
The Merck Manual also mentions contact dermatitis as an adverse side effect of Nystatin. Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin upon coming into contact with a substance such as a medication, a type of plant, jewelry or cosmetics. Symptoms include localized rash, localized pain or tenderness, severe itching and dryness.
According to the Mayo Clinic, even though contact dermatitis is not considered a life-threatening condition, the symptoms involved can result in a serious bacterial skin infection.
