Nystatin

Nystatin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Nystatin is a brand name. Its generic name is Nystatin.

Nystatin Introduction

Nystatin is a polyene antifungal medication used to treat superficial fungal infections of the skin, nails, and mouth. It is typically administered topically through a cream, ointment, powder, or suspension, as long as it is not taken by mouth, and it has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Matain Uses

Nystatin is used to treat various superficial or cutaneous fungal infections in humans caused by fungi, such as Candida albicans, Pityrosporum ovale, and Trichophyton species. It is sometimes used to prevent and treat fungal infections in the kidney, penis, vagina, and urinary tract. It is also used off-label to treat oral thrush (oral candidiasis).

Mechanism of Action

Nystatin works by inhibiting the formation of sterols needed for cell wall production in fungi. As the cell wall is destroyed, the fungi is unable to grow or reproduce, thereby halting its progression and reverting to its natural state as a dormant organism.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Nystatin is a rapid-acting antifungal medication; it is typically effective within 3-5 days of usage, although the effectiveness of the medication may vary based on the severity of the infection.

Absorption

Nystatin has low systemic absorption (less than 0.4%) when used topically and is rapidly cleared from the blood. The peak serum concentration of the drug is achieved within 4-24 hours after topical administration.

Route of Elimination

Nystatin is primarily eliminated in the feces, with up to 95% of the drug being excreted in the bile within 48 hours of administration. The remainder of the drug is excreted in the urine.

Dosage

For topical use, the recommended dose of nystatin is 100,000 to 200,000 international units per gram of the cream or ointment applied twice daily for 14 days. For oral or intravesical use, the recommended dose of nystatin is 10,000 to 100,000 international units per day, divided and taken 3-4 times daily.

Administration

Nystatin is typically administered topically through a cream, ointment, powder, or suspension, as long as it is not taken by mouth. Oral or intravesical nystatin should be taken with meals or immediately after meals to maximize the absorption of the drug.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of topical nystatin are burning, stinging, irritation, and itching at the site of application. Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness, and nausea.

Toxicity

Nystatin is generally considered safe and non-toxic. If irritation or other symptoms persist, contact a healthcare professional until proper medical advice can be acquired.

Precautions

Nystatin should not be used for more than 14 consecutive days and should not be used in the eyes without consulting with a healthcare professional. Patients should not wear contact lenses while using nystatin.

Interaction

Nystatin has no known clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions with other medications.

Disease Interaction

Nystatin is not recommended for patients with kidney or liver dysfunction, as it may worsen the condition.

Drug Interactions

Nystatin has no known clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions with other medications.

Food Interactions

Nystatin is not known to interact with foods.

Pregnancy Use

Nystatin is generally regarded as safe for use during pregnancy, although caution should be taken if it is used in large doses.

Lactation Use

Nystatin is likely to be safe for use during breastfeeding, although caution should be taken if it is used in large doses.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of nystatin is unlikely, as the drug is rapidly cleared from the body. No specific antidote is available.

Contraindication

Nystatin is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to it or any of its components.

Use Direction

Nystatin should be applied topically to affected areas, paying particular attention to avoid contact with the eyes or mouth. Oral or intravesical nystatin should be taken by following instructions provided by a healthcare professional and should not be taken without consulting a professional.

Storage Conditions

Nystatin should be kept in its original container and stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

Nystatin has a relatively small volume of distribution of 1.1 to 1.85 liters/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of nystatin is 4 to 5 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of nystatin is approximately 3 liters/h/kg.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Nystatin

What is Nystatin?

Nystatin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections in the body. It is typically used to treat infections of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.

How does Nystatin work?

Nystatin works by disrupting the formation of the fungal cell wall, inhibiting its growth and killing the fungus.

What type of infections does Nystatin treat?

Nystatin is used to treat a variety of fungal infections, including thrush, vaginal yeast infections, diaper rash, and athlete's foot.

What other forms of Nystatin are available?

Nystatin is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, powder, cream, ointment, and solution. It can also be given as an injection.

What are the side effects of Nystatin?

Common side effects of Nystatin include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, itching, and rash. If you experience any serious side effects such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention immediately.

How long does it take for Nystatin to work?

The length of time Nystatin takes to work depends on the type of infection being treated and the form of Nystatin being used. Generally, Nystatin should start to work within a few days to a week of starting the treatment.

What is the recommended dosage for Nystatin?

The recommended dosage for Nystatin depends on the type of infection being treated and the form of Nystatin being used. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Nystatin.

Can Nystatin be used during pregnancy?

Yes, Nystatin can be used during pregnancy. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting treatment with Nystatin.

Is Nystatin safe for children?

Yes, Nystatin is generally safe for children. However, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions when giving Nystatin to a child.

Should I avoid taking Nystatin with certain medications?

Yes, it is important to tell your doctor about any prescription or non-prescription medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Nystatin. Certain medications can interact with Nystatin and cause serious side effects, so your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternate medication.

Can Nystatin be used for long-term treatment?

Yes, Nystatin can be used for long-term treatment. Your doctor will determine the length of your treatment and will monitor your progress regularly.

Can Nystatin be used to treat a yeast infection?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat a yeast infection. However, it is important to see your doctor to confirm that you have a yeast infection and to determine the most appropriate treatment for you.

Should I avoid contact with other people while taking Nystatin?

Yes, it is important to avoid contact with other people while taking Nystatin. This is especially important if you have an infection that is contagious, such as thrush. Additionally, condoms and diaphragms should not be used during treatment.

Can Nystatin be used to prevent infections?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to prevent fungal infections. Your doctor may recommend Nystatin for people who are more prone to fungal infections due to certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors.

Can Nystatin be used to treat athletes foot?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat athletes foot. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when using Nystatin to treat this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat diaper rash?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat diaper rash. Your doctor may recommend Nystatin cream or ointment for this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be taken with food?

Yes, Nystatin can be taken with food. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Nystatin.

Is Nystatin safe for elderly patients?

Yes, Nystatin is generally safe for elderly patients. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Nystatin.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of when taking Nystatin?

Yes, it is important to tell your doctor about any prescription or non-prescription medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Nystatin. Certain medications can interact with Nystatin and cause serious side effects, so your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternate medication.

Can Nystatin be used to treat a UTI?

No, Nystatin is not effective in treating UTIs. Other medications are more suitable for UTI treatment.

Can Nystatin be used to treat ringworm?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat ringworm. Your doctor may recommend a cream, ointment, or powder for this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat jock itch?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat jock itch. Your doctor may recommend a cream or ointment for this type of infection.

What is the shelf life of Nystatin?

The shelf life of Nystatin depends on the form and storage conditions. Nystatin should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Nystatin should be discarded when it reaches the expiration date on the package.

Can I take Nystatin if I have kidney disease?

Yes, Nystatin can be used if you have kidney disease. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have a kidney disease before starting treatment with Nystatin.

Can I take Nystatin if I have liver disease?

Yes, Nystatin can be used if you have liver disease. However, it is important to inform your doctor if you have a liver disease before starting treatment with Nystatin.

Can I take Nystatin while breastfeeding?

Yes, Nystatin can be taken while breastfeeding, but it is important to discuss your breastfeeding with your doctor before starting treatment with Nystatin.

Will Nystatin cure my infection?

Nystatin is used to treat a variety of fungal infections, but it will not cure the infection. It is important to complete the recommended course of treatment even if you are feeling better, as this will prevent the infection from reappearing.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Nystatin?

If you miss a dose of Nystatin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

What should I do if I overdose on Nystatin?

If you suspect an overdose on Nystatin, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, itching, and rash.

Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Nystatin?

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Nystatin. You should also avoid eating or drinking anything that may interact with Nystatin or upset your stomach.

Should I avoid wearing certain clothes while taking Nystatin?

Yes, it is important to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, especially while treating an infection such as thrush. This can help to reduce your risk of spreading the infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat a fungal nail infection?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat a fungal nail infection. Your doctor may recommend a cream, ointment, or powder for this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat other types of skin infections?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat other types of skin infections. Your doctor may recommend a cream or ointment for this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat a vaginal infection?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat a vaginal infection. Your doctor may recommend a cream or ointment for this type of infection.

Can Nystatin be used to treat a fungal infection of the mucous membranes?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat a fungal infection of the mucous membranes. Your doctor may recommend a cream, ointment, or powder for this type of infection.

What type of precautions should I take while using Nystatin?

It is important to follow the instructions given to you by your doctor when taking Nystatin. You should also avoid sharing towels, bedding, and clothing as this can spread the infection. Additionally, condoms and diaphragms should not be used during treatment.

What should I do if I experience side effects from taking Nystatin?

If you experience any side effects while taking Nystatin, it is important to contact your doctor. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, itching, and rash. If you experience any serious side effects such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek medical attention immediately.

Can Nystatin be used to treat oral thrush?

Yes, Nystatin can be used to treat oral thrush. Your doctor may recommend a cream, ointment, or powder for this type of infection.

When should I expect to see results from taking Nystatin?

The length of time Nystatin takes to work depends on the type of infection being treated and the form of Nystatin being used. Generally, Nystatin should start to work within a few days to a week of starting the treatment.

Can I take Nystatin if I have diabetes?

Yes, Nystatin can be used if you have diabetes. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have diabetes before starting treatment with Nystatin.