Nystatin is an antimycotic polyene antibiotic. The drug works by binding to sterols in the fungal cellular membrane altering the permeability to allow leakage of the cellular contents and destroying the fungus. Nystatin is usually active against the following fungi: Candida,Cryptococcus neoformans, Histoplasma capsulatum, Microsporum audouini, Epidermophyton, Trichophyton, Aspergillus.

The preparation is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Nystatin is used to treat vaginal, intestinal, pulmonary and renal infections caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Nystatin is often used as prophylaxis in patients who are at risk for fungal infections.

Laxatives decreased the effect of Nystatin.

In Candidosis of the Mouth: Infants - 2 ml (approximately 1/2 teaspoon) 200,000 units four times daily.

Children and adults: 4 - 6 ml (400,000 to 600,000 units) four times daily.

In Intestinal candidiasis: 500.000-1.000.000 units (5-10 ml) 3/6 times daily. The duration of treatment is 7 days. Nystatin vaginal tablets are only for use in the vagina twice a day.

Oral doses of nystatin in excess of 5.000.000 (50ml) units daily have caused nausea and gastrointestinal upset. There have been no reports of serious toxic effects or superinfections.

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal upset. In some cases can cause fever. In these cases the drug dose must be reduced.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Caution should be exercised when nystatin is administered to a nursing woman.