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Nystatin topical

Generic name: nystatin topical [ nye-STAT-in ]
Brand names: Nyamyc, Nystop, Mycostatin Topical, Pedi-Dri, Pediaderm AF
Dosage forms: topical cream (100,000 units/g), topical ointment (100000 units/g), topical powder (100000 units/g)
Drug class: Topical antifungals

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 28, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is nystatin topical?

Nystatin is an antifungal medication. Nystatin prevents fungus from growing on your skin.

Nystatin topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin infections caused by yeast.

Nystatin topical is not for use to treat a vaginal yeast infection.

Nystatin topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Nystatin topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using nystatin topical and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, itching, rash, pain, or other irritation where the medicine is applied.

Less serious side effects may include mild itching or irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not use nystatin topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Nystatin topical (for the skin) is not for use to treat a vaginal yeast infection.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using nystatin topical.

Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use nystatin topical if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether nystatin topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether nystatin topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use nystatin topical?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Do not use nystatin topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

Clean and dry the skin before you apply nystatin topical.

Do not cover treated skin with bandages or dressings that do not allow air circulation unless your doctor tells you to.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using nystatin topical.

Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Nystatin topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Cutaneous Candidiasis:

Apply nystatin topical cream, ointment or powder in a quantity sufficient to cover the affected area and immediately surrounding skin 2 to 4 times a day.

The powder formulation is useful for the treatment of moist areas or lesions.

Therapy should be continued for 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the nature and severity of the infection.

Usual Adult Dose for Vaginal Candidiasis:

Insert one nystatin vaginal tablet (100,000 units) vaginally once a day, preferably at bedtime, for a total of 14 days.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Cutaneous Candidiasis:

Apply nystatin topical cream, ointment or powder in a quantity sufficient to cover the affected area and immediately surrounding skin 2 to 4 times a day.

The powder formulation is useful for the treatment of moist areas or lesions.

Therapy should be continued for 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the nature and severity of the infection.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Vaginal Candidiasis:

>13 <18 years: Insert one nystatin vaginal tablet (100,000 units) vaginally once a day, preferably at bedtime, for a total of 14 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using nystatin topical?

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing (such as nylon) that doesn't allow air circulation. Wear clothing made of loose cotton and other natural fibers until your infection is healed.

What other drugs will affect nystatin topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied nystatin topical. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.