What is nystatin used for?

Nystatin oral liquid is commonly used to treat certain fungal infections in your mouth, also called oral thrush.

Nystatin oral tablet is commonly used to treat certain fungal infections in your digestive tract.

Nystatin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does nystatin work (mechanism of action)?

Nystatin is an antifungal medicine that helps treat fungal infections by disrupting the fungi’s cell structure.

How is nystatin supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

• Mycostatin
• Nilstat

Dosage forms and strengths

• 500,000 units oral tablets
• 100,000 units/mL oral suspension

Nystatin is also available in a topical form. See Nystatin topical for more information. 

How should I store nystatin?

Oral Liquid. Nystatin oral liquid should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C).

Oral Tablet. Nystatin oral tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of nystatin?

The most common side effects of nystatin are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

• Diarrhea
• Stomach discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Irritation, burning, or other symptoms in the mouth (see below)

There may be other side effects of nystatin that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of nystatin?

While less common, the most serious side effects of nystatin are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Nystatin may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking nystatin and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Irritation and Other Skin Reactions. Nystatin may cause irritation and other skin reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching. Stop taking nystatin and contact your healthcare provider if you have any bothersome skin reactions.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use nystatin?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take nystatin.

• Nystatin
• Mycostatin
• Nilstat
• Nystop
• Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific nystatin products they stock.

What should I know about nystatin before using it?

Do not take nystatin unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed.

Do not share nystatin with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep nystatin out of the reach of children.

Nystatin should be taken for the full prescribed course. Do not stop taking it earlier than instructed, even if your symptoms get better.

If you are prescribed nystatin oral liquid, it should generally be used for at least two more days after your symptoms go away. When taking nystatin oral liquid, one half of each dose should be taken or given into each side of the mouth. Keep the liquid in your mouth for as long as you can before swallowing. 

Ask your healthcare provider if you are unsure how to take the nystatin form you are prescribed.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using nystatin?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if nystatin is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how nystatin could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if nystatin passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should take nystatin while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does nystatin interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between nystatin and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect nystatin.

Does nystatin interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between nystatin and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much nystatin?

If you or someone else has used too much nystatin, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of nystatin?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.