Nystatine

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

Nystatine Introduction

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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?

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

Nystatine 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

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

Disease Interaction

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

Drug Interactions

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

Food Interactions

Nystatine is not known to interact with foods.

Pregnancy Use

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

Lactation Use

Nystatine 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

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

Use Direction

Nystatine 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

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

Volume of Distribution

Nystatine 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.

Here you find in details version of Nystatine

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Nystatine

What is Nystatine?

Nystatine 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 Nystatine work?

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

What type of infections does Nystatine treat?

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

What other forms of Nystatine are available?

Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

Common side effects of Nystatine 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 Nystatine to work?

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

What is the recommended dosage for Nystatine?

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

Can Nystatine be used during pregnancy?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine.

Is Nystatine safe for children?

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

Should I avoid taking Nystatine 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 Nystatine. Certain medications can interact with Nystatine and cause serious side effects, so your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe an alternate medication.

Can Nystatine be used for long-term treatment?

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat a yeast infection?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

Yes, it is important to avoid contact with other people while taking Nystatine. 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 Nystatine be used to prevent infections?

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat athletes foot?

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat diaper rash?

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

Can Nystatine be taken with food?

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

Is Nystatine safe for elderly patients?

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

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

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat a UTI?

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat ringworm?

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat jock itch?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

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

Can I take Nystatine if I have kidney disease?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine.

Can I take Nystatine if I have liver disease?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine.

Can I take Nystatine while breastfeeding?

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

Will Nystatine cure my infection?

Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

If you miss a dose of Nystatine, 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 Nystatine?

If you suspect an overdose on Nystatine, 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 Nystatine?

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

Should I avoid wearing certain clothes while taking Nystatine?

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 Nystatine be used to treat a fungal nail infection?

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

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

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

Can Nystatine be used to treat a vaginal infection?

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

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

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

It is important to follow the instructions given to you by your doctor when taking Nystatine. 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 Nystatine?

If you experience any side effects while taking Nystatine, 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 Nystatine be used to treat oral thrush?

Yes, Nystatine 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 Nystatine?

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

Can I take Nystatine if I have diabetes?

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