The active ingredient nystatin belongs to the antifungals, the substances used to treat fungal infections. Because of its properties, nystatin is used to treat both external infections on the skin and mucous membranes, as well as fungal infections of the intestinal tract. The active ingredient impairs the cell wall structure of fungi by forming pores, thus making them permeable. It has an inhibitory effect against the multiplication of fungi and can also kill them at high doses.
Effect of nystatin
Nystatin was isolated as the first substance effective against fungi in 1948 in New York. It is a natural product of the bacterium Streptomyces noursei and is particularly effective against Candida yeast. Candida fungi are found on the skin, mucous membranes and in the gastrointestinal tract in three quarters of all people. They become potentially pathogenic only under certain conditions, for example, when the immune system is weakened or after taking antibiotics (especially vaginal fungi). When a fungal infection develops, thorough treatment is required. Nystatin is effective in many places in the body. For example, it is not absorbed in the intestines, so it can be used to fight infections locally throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Nystatin can also be used against infections of the skin and mucous membranes. Simultaneous treatment of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa is particularly recommended for fungal infections in the intestines. Furthermore, nystatin is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, vagina and anal area. Nystatin products can be used against diaper dermatitis in infants and young children. In AIDS patients, the drug is used prophylactically against yeast infections.
Nystatin: use and dosage forms.
Nystatin preparations are offered in different dosage forms, depending on the area of application.
- In the form of coated tablets and coated tablets, nystatin is used to treat fungal infections of the intestine.
- As an ointment, cream or paste, the active ingredient is used against infections of the skin. These can be fungal infections of the hands or feet, athlete’s foot, infections of the nail edge and larger areas of the skin. Nystatin may be used in the anal and genital areas, but it must not get on the mucous membranes.
- As a suspension or gel, it is used against yeast fungi in the mouth and throat.
- To treat vaginal fungal infection, nystatin is used in the form of a vaginal cream for application to the external genital area and a vaginal tablet for insertion into the vagina.
Nystatin preparations can usually be found over-the-counter at pharmacies. A visit to the doctor to determine the infection and especially to determine the pathogen is nevertheless recommended.
Dosage of nystatin
Depending on the area of application and preparation, the dosage of nystatin varies. It is important to be consistent with any treatment of a fungal infection to allow for better results. In addition, you should continue taking it for at least two days after symptoms have subsided. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist regarding the exact dosage and take a look at the package insert.
- One nystatin tablet each should be taken three times daily with sufficient liquid. The duration of therapy is two to three weeks, depending on the severity.
- Ointments, creams and pastes are applied to the affected areas two to four times a day. For babies, it is advisable to apply the drug up to four times a day before diapering.
- One to two milliliters of the gel or suspension is usually taken two to four times a day after meals. It is recommended to keep the preparation in the mouth for a few minutes before swallowing. The duration of therapy is between two and four weeks, depending on the infection.
- Nystatin vaginal tablets are inserted into the vagina once or twice a day, one to two vaginal tablets at a time. The duration of therapy is between three days and two weeks, depending on the severity of the infection. The treatment can be additionally supported by the application of a vaginal cream in the external genital area. The cream is applied twice daily for the duration of therapy. The anal area must not be left out.
Side effects of nystatin
Nystatin is generally considered to be well tolerated. Nevertheless, side effects may occur in rare cases.Especially when taking tablets for the treatment of intestinal fungal infections, gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, nausea and diarrhea may occur. Likewise, allergic reactions may also occur. Itching, redness, and burning may also occur with external use of nystatin preparations and with vaginal tablets.
Contraindications
You should not use the preparations if you are hypersensitive to nystatin. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, nystatin should be used only after consultation with a doctor. Therapy of a fungal infection in the genital and anal areas with nystatin (as well as with all antifungal agents) may impair the tear strength of condoms.