Nystatin is an antifungal antibiotic effective against a broad range of yeasts and yeast-like fungi, including Candida albicans. It is used for the prevention and treatment of Candida infections of the oral cavity, esophagus, and intestinal tract. It is also used as prophylaxis against oral candidiasis in newborns born to mothers with vaginal candidiasis, and for preventing Candida overgrowth during treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Nystatin is an antifungal antibiotic with fungistatic and fungicidal activity against a wide range of pathogenic and non-pathogenic yeasts and fungi, including Candida albicans. It works by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, disrupting its integrity. This causes the membrane to lose its selective permeability, leading to leakage of potassium and other essential intracellular components, resulting in fungal cell death. Nystatin is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Children:

• In intestinal and oral candidiasis (thrush): 1,00,000 units (1 ml) should be dropped into the mouth four times daily. The longer the suspension is kept in contact with the affected area in the mouth before swallowing, the greater will be its effect.
• For prophylaxis in the newborn: The suggested dose is 1,00,000 units (1 ml) once daily or as prescribed by the physician.

Adult:

• For the treatment of intestinal or esophageal candidiasis: 5,00,000 units (5 ml) by mouth 3 or 4 times daily. The dose may be doubled, if required.
• For prophylaxis of intestinal candidiasis in adults: 10,00,000 units (10 ml) daily.
• For prophylaxis to suppress the overgrowth of Candida albicans in patients receiving broad spectrum antibiotic therapy: 10,00,000 units (10 ml) daily.
• For the treatment of dental sores and oral infection: 1,00,000 units (1 ml) suspension should be dropped into the mouth four times daily.

Elderly: Older people with intestinal candidiasis who are unable to swallow tablets should be given 5,00,000 units (5 ml) suspension four times daily.

No specific contraindications are known for the use of Nystatin.

High doses of Nystatin may occasionally cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Systemic side effects and allergic reactions are rare with oral use.

Since Nystatin is minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, and no special precautions are required.

Because gastrointestinal absorption of Nystatin is negligible, no special precautions are required during pregnancy or lactation.

Drugs for subcutaneous and systemic mycoses; drugs used in vaginal and vulval conditions.

Store in a cool, dry place protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.