Nystatin: Administration, Uses, Side Effects and Storage

It is used to prevent fungal infections in the mouth and throat, such as thrush, also known as candidiasis or “white mouth.”

The thrush looks like white and diffuse spots on the tongue, roof of the mouth, throat or esophagus .

But, likewise, transplant patients usually must take an oral preparation against the infection several times a day during the 6 months after the transplant or at any time when they restart taking a high dose of steroids.

However, this medication (nystatin) may also be prescribed to treat other conditions, as determined by your doctor.

How and when should this medication be used?

It is available as a liquid or dry powder that is mixed with water to form a solution. It is also available in pills.

To effectively use the liquid form of nystatin, place half of the prescribed dose of medication on each side of the mouth.

Then shake the liquid in your mouth for at least 5 minutes before gargling and swallowing. If you can not move the liquid in your mouth, ask someone to help you apply the medication in your mouth with a toothbrush.

To effectively use the nystatin tablet form, hold the pill in your mouth for 15 to 30 minutes to allow it to dissolve completely. Do not chew the pill and do not swallow it whole.

If you wear dentures, remove them before taking the medication; This allows the medication to come in contact with more tissues of the mouth. Your doctor may instruct you to soak your dentures in the medication overnight to eliminate the infection of the dentures.

Do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. The medicine is only effective when it is in contact with the tissues in your mouth; Eating or drinking washes the medicine and its effectiveness.

In general, you should take the medication after each meal and before going to bed. The label on your prescription tells you how much to take with each dose and how often you should take it: follow these instructions carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part you do not understand.

It is important to take this medication regularly as prescribed; Do not stop taking it, even if your symptoms have started to clear up. If you stop using this medicine too soon, your symptoms may return.

What special instructions should I follow when using this medication?

  • It is important that you take all of the prescribed amount of this medication to prevent infections.
  • Follow your dosing schedule carefully.
  • Brush your teeth 30 to 60 minutes after taking this medication to prevent tooth decay, especially after the dose you take before going to bed.
  • Make sure you always have enough medicine on hand. Check your supply before vacation or other times when you can not fill your prescription.
  • Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so that you can control your response to this medication.

What should I do if I forget to take a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

What are the side effects of nystatin?

It can cause the following side effects, which can go away after your body adjusts to the medication:

  • Abdominal cramps or pain.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Nausea or vomiting

If any of these side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you have other symptoms that are not listed above, contact your doctor or nurse.

What storage conditions are necessary for this medication?

  • DO NOT store this medication under direct heat or light. DO NOT store the dry powder form of this medicine.
  • Medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in other damp places. Heat or moisture can cause it to break. Store the pill form of this medication in the refrigerator. The heat can cause it to decompose.
  • Do not let the oral liquid form of this medicine freeze.
  • Do not use this medicine after the expiration date on the package.
  • Keep this and other medications out of the reach of children.

When should I call my health care provider?

Call your health care provider:

  • If your symptoms do not improve or get worse after a week of taking this medicine.
  • If you have any symptoms that worry you or if you have any questions.