Nystatin

 What does nystatin skin cream, ointment or powder do? NYSTATIN (Mycostatin(R), Nilstat(R), Nystex(R)) is an antifungal type of antibiotic. Nystatin skin cream, ointment or powder treats fungal (candidal) skin infections. Generic cream and ointment are available, but not a generic powder.

What should my health care professional know before I use nystatin? They need to know if you have any of these conditions: an unusual or allergic reaction to nystatin, other foods, dyes or preservatives, pregnant or trying to get pregnant, breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? Nystatin cream, ointment, or powder are for external use on the skin only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Dust the powder on the affected area (or into socks and shoes). Do not breathe in the powder. For using the cream or ointment, wash hands before and after use (do not wash them after use if you are treating hand or nail infections). Apply a thin layer of cream or ointment to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. You can cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing (bandage); do not use an airtight bandage (such as a plastic-covered bandage). Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Use your doses at regular intervals. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice.

What if I miss a dose? If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What other medicines can interact with nystatin? Other skin products may affect the action of nystatin. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from using nystatin? Side effects with nystatin are rare, but include: skin irritation.  Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away or if it annoys you.

What do I need to watch for while I use nystatin? Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days. Some fungal infections can take a long time to clear completely so finish your prescribed course. If you are treating diaper rash, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.
Do not get the cream, ointment, or powder in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
After bathing make sure that your skin is quite dry. Fungal infections like moist conditions. Do not walk about barefoot. To help prevent reinfection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, clothing.

Where can I keep my medicine? Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degreesC (59 and 77 degreesF). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.