Mycostatin (Topical)
Generic name: nystatin [ nye-STAT-in ]
Brand names: Mycostatin, Nystop, Pedi-Dri
Drug class: Topical antifungals
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 1, 2024.
The Mycostatin Topical brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
Uses for Mycostatin
Nystatin belongs to the group of medicines called antifungals. Topical nystatin is used to treat some types of fungus infections of the skin.
Nystatin is available in the U.S. only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Mycostatin
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Although there is no specific information comparing use of topical nystatin in children with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.
Geriatric
Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of topical nystatin in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Interactions with Medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.
Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol
Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.
Proper use of Mycostatin
Topical nystatin should not be used in the eyes.
Apply enough nystatin to cover the affected area.
For patients using the powder form of this medicine on the feet:
- Sprinkle the powder between the toes, on the feet, and in socks and shoes.
The use of any kind of occlusive dressing (airtight covering, such as kitchen plastic wrap) over this medicine may increase the chance of irritation. Therefore, do not bandage, wrap, or apply any occlusive dressing over this medicine unless directed to do so by your doctor. When using this medicine on the diaper area of children, avoid tight-fitting diapers and plastic pants.
To help clear up your infection completely, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your condition has improved. Do not miss any doses.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
- For topical dosage forms (cream or ointment):
- For fungus infections:
- Adults and children—Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin two times a day.
- For fungus infections:
- For topical dosage form (powder):
- For fungus infections:
- Adults and children—Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin two or three times a day.
- For fungus infections:
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Related/similar drugs
fluconazole, nystatin topical, clotrimazole topical, ketoconazole topical, terbinafine, Diflucan, itraconazole, miconazole topical, ciclopirox topical
Side Effects of Mycostatin
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
- Skin irritation not present before use of this medicine
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Mycostatin
- Nystop
- Pedi-Dri
In Canada
- Mycostatin Cream
- Mycostatin Ointment
- Mycostatin Powder
- Nadostine
- Nilstat Topical Cream
- Nilstat Topical Ointment
- Nyaderm Cream
- Nyaderm Ointment
Available Dosage Forms:
- Cream
- Powder
- Ointment
Therapeutic Class: Antifungal
Chemical Class: Polyene
More about Mycostatin Topical (nystatin topical)
- Compare alternatives
- Reviews (1)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical antifungals
- Breastfeeding
Patient resources
Other brands
Nystop, Nyamyc, Pedi-Dri, Pediaderm AF
Professional resources
Other brands
Nystop, Nyamyc, Klayesta, Nyata
Related treatment guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.