Nystatin is a prescription antifungal medication that can be administered orally, topically or vaginally. This medication should be used as directed for the entire length of the prescription even if symptoms resolve shortly after treatment begins. Patients prescribed this medication should discuss nystatin indications with a medical professional before beginning treatment.
Oral Yeast Infection
Nystatin is primarily indicated to treat fungal infections caused by members of the Candida family, such as Candida albicans, Drugs.com explains. An oral fungal infection, also called an oral yeast infection or thrush, can cause uncomfortable symptoms in affected patients. Oral yeast infection symptoms include the appearance of white, lumpy skin lesions along the tongue, cheeks or gums. Patients may notice that these skin lesions begin to bleed if disrupted while eating or brushing the teeth. An oral yeast infection is typically treated with nystatin liquid or lozenges. The nystatin liquid is swished around the mouth and spit out, while the nystatin lozenge is dissolved within the mouth.
Skin Yeast Infection
A yeast infection of the skin can cause itchy, irritated patches of skin to arise across a patient's body. Frequent scratching of these skin lesions can increase risk of spreading the skin infection. Nystatin topical ointment or cream can be used to treat a skin yeast infection when applied directly to the site of infection, MedlinePlus reports. Severe itching symptoms typically resolve within one to three days following nystatin treatment initiation.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
Women who develop a vaginal yeast infection may find relief from symptoms following treatment with nystatin. A vaginal yeast infection is characterized by thick, white, clumpy vaginal discharge and intense vaginal itching or irritation. Nystatin vaginal cream or tablets can be used up to twice daily to resolve vaginal yeast infection symptoms, PubMed Health explains. This medication is administered vaginally by inserting the tablets or cream into the affected area.
Fungal Gastrointestinal Infection
This medication can also be used to alleviate symptoms associated with a fungal infection of the gastrointestinal tract. This type of infection may cause upset stomach, diarrhea or abdominal discomfort. Affected patients are typically treated with liquid nystatin, which is administered orally and swallowed.
