Nystatin

Nystatin

Nystatin is a powerful antifungal medication that has been a game-changer in treating various fungal infections. Nystatin tablets are widely used to combat yeast overgrowth in the body, relieving many who suffer from uncomfortable symptoms. As a trusted treatment option, nystatin has gained popularity for its effectiveness in tackling persistent fungal issues. In this article, we will explore what nystatin is used for and how it works to fight fungal infections. We will also examine nystatin tablet dosage, common uses, and side effects. 

What is Nystatin?

Nystatin is a powerful antifungal medication with a broad-spectrum effect against various yeasts and fungi, particularly Candida species. It belongs to the polyene macrolide antibiotic family and is synthesised by a strain of bacteria called Streptomyces noursei. This remarkable drug has gained recognition for its effectiveness in treating cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and gastrointestinal fungal infections.

One of the critical features of nystatin is its limited absorption when taken orally or applied topically. This characteristic makes it ideal for treating superficial fungal infections without causing systemic effects. Nystatin is available in various forms, including tablets, oral suspensions, creams, and ointments, allowing for targeted treatment of fungal infections.

Nystatin Uses

Nystatin tablets have a range of applications in curing fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. This antifungal medication helps treat: 

• Infections in the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach and intestines
• Intestinal candidiasis
• Oral thrush
• Anal candidiasis
• In some instances, doctors may recommend nystatin tablets to prevent invasive candidiasis in low birth weight neonates. 

While nystatin tablets are effective for many fungal infections, they are unsuitable for treating systemic infections or those affecting the bloodstream. In such cases, alternative antifungal medications may be necessary.

How to Use Nystatin Tablet

• Nystatin tablets are taken by mouth to treat fungal infections of the stomach and intestines. It is necessary to follow the directions on your prescription label completely & ask your doctor to explain if you need help understanding.
• To get the most benefit from nystatin tablets, use them regularly at the same time each day. It is essential to use nystatin precisely as prescribed, without using more or less of it or taking it more often than directed.
• Take the medication with or without food, as directed by your doctor, and swallow the tablets with a glass of water. 
• The duration of treatment can vary and depends on your medical condition & medication response. It may take several days to months to complete the course. 
• Even if you feel better after a few days, continue to take nystatin tablets until you have finished the total prescribed amount. Stopping the medication too early may allow the infection to persist or return.
• Remember that nystatin tablets are different from other forms of medication, such as lozenges or oral suspension. 

Carefully following these instructions can help ensure the most effective fungal infection treatment.

Nystatin Side Effects

Nystatin tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. 

Common side effects of nystatin tablets include: 

• Upset stomach 
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Dehydration
• Mouth irritation

These symptoms are usually mild and often resolve on their own.

Rarely, more severe adverse effects may occur, including: 

• Fast heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle pain
• Severe dizziness
• Serious allergic reaction in the form of rash, itching or swelling (face, tongue, or throat) or trouble breathing

Precautions

• Allergies: Before taking nystatin tablets, it is essential to inform your doctor about any allergies you may have. This medication has some inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues. 
• Medical Conditions: If you have a history of HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or kidney problems, make sure to discuss this with your doctor.
• Diabetes: Nystatin tablets contain sugar, so individuals with diabetes should exercise caution. 
• Oral Appliance: For those who wear dentures, proper cleaning and maintenance of your dental appliances are essential during treatment with nystatin.
• Drug Interaction: Before undergoing any surgical procedures, it is important to tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with nystatin, potentially affecting its effectiveness or causing unwanted side effects.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women should use nystatin tablets only when necessary. Discuss the risks & benefits with your doctor. 

How Nystatin Tablet Works

Nystatin tablets are a potent antifungal medication, primarily targeting Candida species and other fungi. As a polyene macrolide antibiotic, nystatin works by binding to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, disrupting their permeability and causing essential cell contents to leak out. This mechanism is selective for fungi, as mammalian cells contain cholesterol instead of ergosterol, making nystatin less harmful to human cells. It is both fungistatic at low doses (inhibiting growth) and fungicidal at higher doses (causing cell death), offering a broad spectrum of activity against various yeasts and fungi.

Can I Take Nystatin with Other Medicines?

Nystatin tablets generally have minimal interactions with other medications. 

When taking nystatin tablets, it is usually safe to use other common medications, such as painkillers. However, some precautions are necessary. For instance, if you are using nystatin cream or ointment containing additional ingredients, consult your pharmacist or doctor to ensure these components are safe for your other medicines.

Sometimes, nystatin may affect certain drugs' excretion or serum concentration. For example, it can decrease the excretion of medications like ambrisentan, asunaprevir, and atorvastatin. It may also increase the serum concentration of drugs such as atogepant.

To ensure your safety, always keep a list of all your medications and share it with your doctors. 

Dosing Information

The dosage of nystatin tablets varies and depends on the specific condition and the patient's age. 

The typical dose for adults and children over five years old with intestinal candidiasis is 500,000 to 1,000,000 units taken orally three times a day. This can be achieved by taking one to two tablets, each containing 500,000 units of nystatin.

For oral thrush in adults and children over five years old, the recommended dose is usually 400,000 to 600,000 units of oral suspension four times a day. However, it is important to note that tablets are not used for oral thrush treatment.

For oral thrush in infants aged one month to 12 months, the recommended dose is 200,000 units of oral suspension four times a day. Children aged 1 to 5 years may require a dose similar to adults for oral thrush treatment.

The duration of treatment with nystatin tablets generally continues for at least 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared and cultures show no signs of Candida. 

FAQs

1. What to avoid when taking nystatin?

When taking nystatin, it is essential to avoid certain things. Do not mix nystatin liquid with food or water, which can reduce its effectiveness. Avoid consuming alcohol or food for at least 30 minutes after taking nystatin suspension. If you wear dentures, make sure to clean them properly during treatment.

2. Is nystatin safe?

Nystatin is generally safe when used as directed. Its minimal systemic absorption makes it suitable for treating localised fungal infections. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects in some people. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any unusual symptoms.

3. What is nystatin drug commonly used for?

Nystatin is commonly used to treat fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. It helps treat oral thrush, intestinal candidiasis, and anal candidiasis. Nystatin tablets are effective for treating fungal infections in the stomach and intestines, while the suspension form is used for oral thrush.

4. Who cannot take nystatin?

People with known hypersensitivity to nystatin should not take it. Some nystatin oral suspension preparations contain sugar, making them unsuitable for individuals with disaccharide intolerance. Before starting nystatin treatment, always inform your doctor about any allergies or medical conditions.

5. When to take nystatin?

Nystatin should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. For oral thrush, doctors generally recommend taking it four times a day after meals. For intestinal candidiasis, nystatin tablets are usually taken three times a day. It is essential to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve earlier.

6. Is nystatin safe to take daily?

Nystatin can be safely taken daily as prescribed by your doctor. The treatment duration can vary depending on the condition. For oral thrush, treatment usually lasts about a week, with an additional two days to ensure complete eradication of the fungus.

7. How long is nystatin used for?

The duration of nystatin treatment depends on the specific condition and your response to the medication. Nystatin is used for about a week plus two additional days for oral thrush. For intestinal candidiasis, the treatment may last longer. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.