nystatin topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

• nystatin is an antifungal medication that binds to fungal cell membrane components and disrupts their structure, ultimately leading to death. nystatin is primarily active against various fungal organisms, including Candida albicans and other Candida species, as well as some molds. 

• Topical nystatin is commonly used to treat fungal skin infections, such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. It may also treat diaper rash caused by a yeast infection. When applied to the affected area, nystatin is absorbed into the skin cells and the underlying tissues, where it works to eliminate the fungal infection. 

• It is important to note that nystatin is ineffective against bacterial or viral infections and should not be used to treat infections not caused by fungi. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Contact dermatitis 

Acneiform eruption (rare) 

Nontoxic; well tolerated by all age groups 

Stevens-Johnson syndrome 

Black Box Warning

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications/caution: 

Contraindications: 

nystatin topical is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, some contraindications and precautions should be considered before using this medication. 

Some contraindications of nystatin topical include: 

• Allergy or hypersensitivity to nystatin or any of its components. 
• Use in patients with a perforated eardrum or active drainage from the ear. 

Caution: 

• Use for the prescribed duration: nystatin topical should be used for the entire prescribed duration of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the end of the treatment course. This helps to ensure that the infection is fully cleared and reduces the risk of recurrence. 
• Avoid contact with the eyes: nystatin topical should not be applied to the eyes or mucous membranes, as it can cause irritation or damage. 
• Use in pregnancy and lactation: There is limited data on using nystatin topical during pregnancy and lactation, so caution should be used in these populations. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using this medication. 
• Interactions with other medications: nystatin topical may interact with other medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications before using nystatin topical. 
• Possible side effects: While nystatin topical is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some side effects, including skin irritation, redness, and itching. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if these side effects are severe or persistent. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: There is limited data on using nystatin topical during pregnancy and lactation, so caution should be used in these populations. 

Lactation: Excretion of the drug in human breast milk is unknown 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.   

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• nystatin topical is an antifungal medication that works by binding to ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membranes, ultimately leading to the death of the fungal cells. 

• nystatin is an amphoteric polyene macrolide antibiotic produced by the fermentation of the actinomycete Streptomyces noursei. It is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent primarily active against Candida species and some molds. 

• When applied topically, nystatin is absorbed into the skin and underlying tissues, where it works to eliminate fungal skin infections. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream, so it does not have systemic effects. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of nystatin topical is primarily characterized by its antifungal activity against various fungal organisms, including Candida species and some molds. 

nystatin works by binding to ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membranes, which ultimately leads to the disruption of the membrane structure and the death of the fungal cells. nystatin is a fungicidal agent, killing the fungal cells rather than inhibiting their growth. 

nystatin topical is typically applied directly to the affected skin area and absorbed into the skin and underlying tissues. The medication eliminates the fungal infection and reduces symptoms such as itching, redness, and inflammation. 

The exact mechanism of action of nystatin topical is not fully understood. It involves multiple pathways, including inhibiting fungal cell wall synthesis and altering membrane permeability. nystatin may also have immunomodulatory effects, affecting the immune response to fungal infections. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When applied topically, nystatin is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream and is primarily localized in the skin and underlying tissues. The extent of absorption may vary depending on the specific formulation and concentration of the medication and the skin condition. 

Distribution 

nystatin is not significantly distributed throughout the body after topical application. It remains mainly localized in the skin and underlying tissues at the application site. 

Metabolism 

nystatin is not metabolized in the body after topical application, as it is primarily localized in the skin and underlying tissues, where it acts to eliminate fungal infections. 

Elimination and Excretion 

nystatin is not excreted in significant amounts in the urine or feces after topical application, as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream to a significant extent. Any residual medication is typically eliminated through normal skin shedding and turnover. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

nystatin topical is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal skin infections. It comes in the form of a cream, ointment, or powder and is applied directly to the affected area of the skin. Here are some general guidelines for the administration of nystatin topical: 

• Wash and dry the affected area thoroughly before applying the medication. 
• Apply a thin cream, ointment, or powder layer to the affected area. 
• Rub the medication gently into the skin until it is absorbed. 
• Use the medication exactly as your doctor prescribes or according to the instructions on the label. 
• Continue to use the medication for the entire course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve before the end of the treatment period. 
• Avoid getting the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you accidentally get the medication in these areas, rinse with water immediately. 
• If you are using the powder form of nystatin topical, be careful not to inhale the powder. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: nystatin topical 

Why do we use nystatin topical? 

nystatin topical is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal skin infections. It works by stopping the fungus growth that is causing the infection. Here are some specific uses of nystatin topical: 

• Athlete’s foot: nystatin topical can treat athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that usually affects the skin between the toes. 
• Jock itch: nystatin topical can also be used to treat jock itch, a fungal infection affecting the groin area. 
• Ringworm: nystatin topical is sometimes used to treat ringworm, which is a fungal infection that can affect various parts of the body, including the scalp, feet, and nails. 
• Candidiasis: nystatin topical can treat candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast. This type of infection can affect the mouth, throat, and genitals. 
• Intertrigo: nystatin topical is sometimes used to treat intertrigo, a skin condition that occurs in warm, moist areas of the body where skin rubs against skin, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.