nystatin (oral tablet and capsule)

Medically Reviewed on 3/17/2023

Generic Name: nystatin

Brand Names: Mycostatin, Nilstat, Nyamyc, Nystat Rx, Nystatin Systemic, Nystex, Nystop

Drug Class: Antifungals, Topical, Antifungals, Other

What is nystatin, and what is it used for?

Nystatin is an oral anti-fungal medication available in tablet or capsule form used for treating intestinal candidiasis.

Nystatin works by binding to sterols in the walls of fungal cells, disturbing the function of the cell wall. The fungal cells eventually lose their contents, leading to their death and improvement of the fungal infection.

The FDA approved Nystatin tablets in September 1964.

What are the side effects of nystatin?

Common side effects of nystatin tablets and capsules include:

Other side effects of nystatin include:

Possible serious side effects of nystatin include:

  • Stevens-Johnson syndrome

What is the dosage for nystatin?

  • The recommended dose for treating intestinal candidiasis is 500,000 to 1,000,000 units (1 to 2 tablets) every 8 hours.

Which drugs interact with nystatin?

  • There are no significant drug interactions with nystatin oral tablets and capsules.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • There are no adequate studies done with nystatin to determine safe and effective use in pregnant women.
  • It is not known whether nystatin enters breast milk; therefore, it is best for nursing mothers to be cautious before breastfeeding.

What else should I know about nystatin?

What preparations of nystatin are available?
  • Tablets: 500,000 units
  • Capsule: 500,000 units , 1,000,000 units
How should I keep nystatin stored?
  • Nystatin oral tablets and capsules should be stored at room temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F)

QUESTION

Pancreatitis is inflammation of an organ in the abdomen called the pancreas. See Answer

Summary

Nystatin oral tablets and capsules are prescribed to treat a fungal infection called "intestinal candidiasis." Side effects of nystatin include diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. Other side effects of nystatin include contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. There are no significant drug interactions with nystatin oral tablets and capsules. Consult your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Medically Reviewed on 3/17/2023
References
Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine

REFERENCE:

FDA Prescribing Information