Nystatin

What nystatin is for

Nystatin is an antifungal medicine. It's used to treat or prevent thrush or other fungal infections in your mouth or throat.

There are also creams and ointments that contain nystatin and a steroid or antibiotic medicine. These are used to treat nappy rash and other skin conditions.

How to take nystatin

Nystatin comes as a liquid you hold in your mouth and then swallow (oral suspension).

To treat oral thrush, you'll usually need to take the liquid 4 times a day for 7 days, and then for 2 days after your symptoms have gone.

When taking nystatin liquid:

• shake the bottle well and use the syringe or cup that comes with it to make sure you measure the correct dose
• try to hold the liquid in your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing, if possible – this will help the medicine work better, but do not worry if you swallow it quicker than this
• try to space the doses equally throughout the day
• it's best to take it after food

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

If you miss a dose of nystatin

If you forget to take a dose of nystatin, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose.

If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.

If you take too much nystatin

Do not worry if you sometimes use more nystatin than you should. But avoid regularly using too much because it can increase the risk of side effects.

Side effects of nystatin

Like all medicines, nystatin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Possible side effects of nystatin include:

• stomach pain, discomfort or bloating
• indigestion
• diarrhoea
• feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting)

Nystatin will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.

Serious side effects

Nystatin can sometimes cause serious side effects, although most of them are rare.

Possible serious side effects of nystatin include:

• an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash and difficulty breathing
• angioedema – causing swelling in areas such as your lips, tongue and face
• a severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) – causing flu-like symptoms, a rash, blisters and sores

Who can and cannot take nystatin

Most adults and children can take nystatin. It's also sometimes prescribed for newborn babies.

But nystatin is not suitable for some people. For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from nystatin or other antifungal medicine
• you have a fungal infection in your lungs or on your skin

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take or use it.

Breastfeeding and nystatin

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're breastfeeding. They may recommend using nystatin if the benefits outweigh the risks.

If you're taking nystatin while breastfeeding, speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.

Pregnancy and nystatin

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking nystatin if you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant.

They may recommend using nystatin if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Taking nystatin with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with nystatin.

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure you can take it.

Food, drink and alcohol with nystatin

You can eat and drink as normal while taking nystatin.