Why is this medication prescribed?

Nystatin Topical is prescribed to treat fungal infections of the skin, mouth, and vagina caused by the Candida species of fungi. It is an antifungal medication that works by stopping the growth of the fungus, thereby helping to eliminate the infection.

Uses of Nystatin Topical:

• Skin Infections: Nystatin topical can be used to treat fungal infections of the skin, such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis).
• Oral Candidiasis: It is also used for the treatment of oral thrush (oral candidiasis), which is a fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat.
• Vaginal Candidiasis: In the form of vaginal cream or suppositories, Nystatin can be used to treat vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Nystatin topical should be used, but it’s essential to follow your doctor’s specific instructions:

• Skin Infections: Clean and dry the affected area before applying the medication. Then, apply a thin layer of Nystatin cream or ointment over the affected skin and surrounding area. Gently rub it in, and be sure to wash your hands afterward. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency of application.
• Oral Candidiasis: Nystatin oral suspension (liquid) is usually prescribed for oral thrush. Swish the medication in your mouth for as long as possible before swallowing. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before it’s finished.
• Vaginal Candidiasis: If using Nystatin vaginal cream, it is typically applied intravaginally as directed by your doctor. If using suppositories, they are inserted deep into the vagina. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.

Always use Nystatin Topical exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. It’s essential to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared and prevent it from coming back.

If there is no improvement in your condition or if it worsens despite using Nystatin Topical, consult your doctor, as they may need to reevaluate your treatment plan or consider other options. Additionally, inform your doctor of any allergies or adverse reactions you may have experienced with medications in the past before using Nystatin Topical.

Other uses for this medicine

Other than the primary uses mentioned earlier, Nystatin Topical may also be used in some cases for treating diaper rash caused by yeast (candidal diaper rash). However, its use for other conditions would depend on the doctor’s discretion, as Nystatin is primarily effective against fungal infections caused by Candida species.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Nystatin topical, it’s essential to follow certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Follow the prescribed instructions: Use Nystatin topical exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use more or less of the medication than recommended, and do not use it for a longer duration than advised.
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes: Nystatin topical is meant for external use only. Avoid getting the medication into your eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Keep the affected area clean and dry: Before applying Nystatin, make sure the affected area is clean and dry. This helps enhance the effectiveness of the medication and prevents additional irritation.
• Do not use on broken or damaged skin: Do not apply Nystatin to open wounds, cuts, or damaged skin. If the area is injured, wait for it to heal before using the medication.
• Inform your healthcare provider about allergies: Let your healthcare provider know if you are allergic to Nystatin or any other antifungal medications. This information is crucial to avoid potential allergic reactions.
• Keep away from children and pets: Store Nystatin topical out of reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion may lead to harmful effects.
• Avoid using with other topical products: Unless directed by your healthcare provider, avoid using other topical products (such as creams, ointments, or lotions) on the same area as Nystatin. Mixing products may reduce the medication’s effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
• Finish the full course of treatment: Even if your symptoms improve, continue using Nystatin for the entire prescribed duration. Stopping prematurely may lead to a recurrence of the infection.
• Report any adverse reactions: If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects while using Nystatin topical, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
• Avoid sharing the medication: Nystatin topical should not be shared with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Each individual should use their prescribed medication.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using Nystatin topical. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Nystatin Topical is a medication applied externally or used in the mouth or vagina, so there are no specific dietary instructions to follow while using it. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a balanced and healthy diet to support your overall health and immune system, which can help in the recovery from fungal infections.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Nystatin topical, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Nystatin is an antifungal medication commonly used topically to treat fungal infections such as candidiasis (yeast infections). When applied topically, Nystatin is generally considered safe and side effects are relatively rare. However, like all medications, it may cause some side effects. Common side effects of Nystatin topical include:

• Skin irritation: Some individuals may experience redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may develop an allergic reaction to Nystatin. Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact dermatitis: In some cases, Nystatin may cause a localized skin reaction known as contact dermatitis, characterized by redness, swelling, and itching at the site of application.
• Dryness or peeling: Nystatin may cause mild dryness or peeling of the skin in the treated area.
• Gastrointestinal effects: Although less common with topical application, Nystatin can cause gastrointestinal side effects when taken orally, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These effects are not typically associated with topical use.

If you experience any bothersome or persistent side effects while using Nystatin topical, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider promptly. They can evaluate your condition and determine if any adjustments are needed to your treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Nystatin Topical:

• Store Nystatin Topical at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use Nystatin Topical beyond its expiration date as indicated on the packaging.
• If your doctor changes your medication or you no longer need it, follow appropriate disposal guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless specifically instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed, and consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for the appropriate disposal method.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or accidentally ingest Nystatin Topical (for example, if you or someone else mistakenly swallows the oral suspension or cream), contact your local poison control center at once or seek emergency medical attention. In case of accidental ingestion, provide the emergency responders or healthcare providers with all relevant information about the medication ingested.

What other information should I know

• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Follow-up Visits: If your doctor has prescribed Nystatin Topical for you, they may want to monitor your progress periodically. Attend any follow-up visits as scheduled to ensure the treatment is effective and appropriate for your condition.
• Complete Course of Treatment: Finish the full course of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Stopping the medication early may allow the infection to return or worsen.
• Avoid Sharing: Do not share Nystatin Topical or any other medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Each person’s condition may be different, and sharing medications can lead to unnecessary risks and complications.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all your healthcare providers, including dentists and specialists, that you are using Nystatin Topical. This helps ensure coordinated and appropriate care.
• Not for Ophthalmic Use: Nystatin Topical is not for use in the eyes. If accidental eye contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Keep the Original Container: Keep Nystatin Topical in its original container with the lid tightly closed to prevent contamination and maintain its effectiveness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and if you have any questions or concerns about using Nystatin Topical, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific medical condition and treatment plan.