Nystan – Nystatin

Description

Nystatin oral suspension also known under the brand name Nystan is an antifungal medicine used to treat fungal infections of the mouth and throat, particularly oral thrush. It is suitable for both adults and children alike. Oral thrush can occur as a result of taking antibiotic medications or even steroid inhalers.

What is Nystatin oral suspension?

Nystatin is the name of the active ingredient present in Nystan/Nystatin oral suspension. It is commonly used for the treatment and prevention of oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by candida albicans. It is available as a liquid suspension designed to coat and target the affected areas of the mouth at source. As Daktatin oral gel has been unavailable for quite some time, Nystatin has become the most popular treatment for oral thrush.

How does Nystatin work?

Nystatin works by binding to the ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane. It disrupts the strength of the membrane, causing its contents to leak out, ultimately leading to it dying, and the infection to be cleared up. This is turn helps relieve the symptoms experienced from oral thrush such as redness, tenderness, sensitivity, and white patches in the mouth.

How to use Nystatin?

We recommend that you read all the necessary information mentioned in the patient information leaflet or seek guidance from a doctor about the dose and frequency before using. However, here is some information that may be useful:

• Shake the bottle well before use
• Use the dropper provided with the medication to measure the correct dose
• The usual dose is 1ml (100,000 units) to be dropped into the mouth, four times a day. The drops should be left in the mouth as long as possible before swallowing.
• Avoid eating and drinking immediately after a dose, to allow the medication to work effectively.

Who can use Nystatin?

Nystatin is safe to use for adults and children, and even newborn babies. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of oral thrush and also for the prevention of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients e.g., those on antibiotics or chemotherapy.

Who should not use Nystatin?

You should not use Nystatin if you:

• Are allergic to Nystatin or any of the ingredients present in the oral suspension
• Are unable to retain the liquid in your mouth, especially if you are required to keep the suspension in contact with the affected area
• Have kidney disease