Nystatin

This particular drug was developed at the New York State Institute of Health back in the early 1950′s and it was because of this fact that it was named Nystatin after the institute. Nystatin is an antifungal drug used to treat candidiasis the medical name for thrush, which is an infection caused by the candida yeast, it is also used to treat infections of the skin, mouth, throat the intestinal tract, as well as oesophagus and the vagina and is available in a variety of dosage forms. Nystatin is not absorbed into the bloodstream from the gut, which allows it to act directly on the Candida in the intestines. Nystatin can also treat Cryptococcus, another type of fungal yeast, and can be used prophylactically to prevent yeast infections in patients with AIDS or those undergoing chemotherapy. The liquid form should be swished around the mouth and held for as long as possible before swallowing. Nystatin rarely causes unwanted adverse effects. Because is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts from the mouth or gut it does not cause problems with other medication. Nystatin can be used with caution during pregnancy to treat vaginal candidiasis.

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Quick Guide

• antifungal drug with overdose danger – LOW.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – YES.
• Adult dosage would be 2 – 4 million units daily (by mouth).
• 100,000 – 200,000 units at night (pessaries).
• 1 – 2 applicatorfuls .
• Skin preparations should be taken as directed.
• The liquid form should be held in the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing.
• Alcohol Avoidance – There would be no special problems expected.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Effects are considered rare for most individuals.
Rare: Nausea, vomiting, Rash Diarrhoea, skin rash.

If you do suffer side effects and any of these side effects become persistent you should contact your doctor.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

There would be no special problems expected. This treatment is usually given as a course of treatment until the infection clears. Do not stop taking without discussing with your doctor before hand. Complete the full course unless you are told to stop taking nystatin by your doctor.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

There would be no special problems expected.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

Nyatatin is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts from the mouth or gut. As a result, it is not expected to be harmful if used with other medicines or if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, as with all medicines, it should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Always seek medical advice from your doctor.

Nystatin is classified as a Pregnancy Category C Medicine by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Category C… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

There would be no special problems expected when prescribed for the older generation. A reduced dose would be necessary for children. Manufactures recommend that this medicine is not suitable for children below the age of 1 year.

Overdose

If for what ever reason you take an unintentional extra dose it would be unlikely to cause you any problems. However, if you have or someone you know has taken a large overdose seek immediate medical assistance.

Other Medication Reactions

Nystatin is not absorbed into the bloodstream, because of this it is unlikely to affect any other medicines.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, avoid doubling the dosage if a dose is missed.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

You should take the full course of treatment even if the area affected seems to have cleared up. It is possible for the original infection to be still present allowing the infection to recur. You should only stop taking the course of treatment if advised to do so by your doctor.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

Full beneficial effects may take 7 to 14 days. The action of this drug can last up to 6 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.