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).

Brand Name Nystatin
Type
Weight
Generic Nystatin
Manufacturer
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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

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
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