General Information and Indications:
Nystatin is used to treat fungal
infections of the skin, mouth, vagina, and intestinal tract. Fungal
medicines will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.
Information For Users:
Nystatin comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by
mouth; a soft lozenge (pastille) to be dissolved slowly in the mouth; a
tablet and vaginal cream to be inserted into the vagina; and in powder,
ointment, and cream to be applied to the skin.
Follow the directions on your prescription label, ask your doctor or
pharmacist If you have any questions. Take nystatin exactly as directed. Do
not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your
health care provider.
Allow the lozenges (pastilles) to dissolve slowly in your mouth. Do not chew
or swallow lozenges whole. Continue to use nystatin lozenges (pastilles) for
at least 48 hours after symptoms of your mouth infection disappear.
Nystatin liquid usually is used three to five times a day for mouth
infections and three times a day for intestinal infections. Shake the bottle
well before each use to mix the medication evenly. If you are using liquid
nystatin for a mouth infection, place half of the dose in each side of the
mouth and hold it there or swish it throughout the mouth for several minutes
before swallowing. Good oral hygiene, including proper care of dentures, is
important for the cure of mouth infections.
If you are using liquid nystatin for an intestinal infection, just swallow
the liquid you measured from the dropper; there is no need to hold it or
swish it in your mouth.
Nystatin skin ointment or cream usually is used several times a day for skin
infections. Wash the affected area thoroughly. Apply a small amount of cream
or ointment and gently and thoroughly massage it into your skin. If you use
this medication on your face, keep it out of your eyes.
If you are using powder for infected feet, dust the powder inside your shoes
and stockings as well as on your feet.
Nystatin vaginal tablets and cream usually are used once or twice a day for
vaginal infections. Nystatin vaginal tablets usually are used for 2 weeks in
women who are not pregnant and for 3-6 weeks before delivery in pregnant
women. Continue to use the vaginal tablets and cream even if symptoms
improve after a few days. Insert the vaginal tablets or cream high into the
vagina. They each come with a special applicator for inserting them and
directions. Unwrap the vaginal tablets just before inserting them. Read the
directions provided with the tablets or cream and follow these steps:
o Fill the special applicator to the level indicated.
o Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
o Gently insert the applicator into your vagina and push the plunger to
release the medication.
o Withdraw the applicator and wash it with soap and warm water.
o Wash your hands promptly to avoid spreading the infection.
You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the vaginal cream to
protect your clothing against stains. Do not use a tampon because it will
absorb the drug. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Continue using nystatin vaginal cream or tablets even if you get your period
during treatment.
Special
precautions:
o Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have
allergy to nystatin or any other medications.
o Inform your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, including vitamins.
o Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are
breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking nystatin, call your
doctor.
Possible Adverse
Effects:
Though adverse effects of nystatin are not
common, they could occur. Inform your doctor if any of these symptoms from
the vaginal tablets and cream or skin ointment or cream are severe or do not
go away:
o itching
o irritation
o burning
If you experience any of the following symptoms from the oral tablets and
liquid, call your doctor without delay:
o diarrhea
o upset stomach
o stomach pain
o skin rash
Brand Name(s):
o Mycostatin®
o Mycostatin® Filmlok®
o Mycostatin® Pastilles
o Nystatin Ointment®
o Nystat-Rx®
o Nystop®
o Pedi-Dri®
Other Name(s):
o Myco-Triacet® II containing Nystatin
and Triamcinolone Acetonide
o Mytrex® containing Nystatin and Triamcinolone Acetonide
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