Nystatin Cream

What is nystatin cream used to treat?

Nystatin cream is an antifungal medication used to treat infections caused by yeast. Nystatin comes in various forms (powder, tablets, cream), but the cream version is intended to treat skin infections specifically. 

What is a yeast infection?

Yeast infections are caused by Candida fungi. This fungus is normally present on the skin and is kept in balance by the immune system and the barrier of intact skin. However, when this balance is disturbed, the fungus can replicate very quickly, resulting in a yeast infection. This balance can be disturbed by various factors, including stress, antibiotic use, skin abrasion, excessive perspiration and more.

How does nystatin cream work?

Nystatin cream stops the growth of the infection-causing fungus by destroying the fungus' cell membrane and cell walls. With these crucial structures compromised, the fungal cells die and are therefore unable to replicate.

Where can nystatin cream be used?

Nystatin cream can be safely applied anywhere on your body with the exception of the following areas: vagina, mouth, eyes, and inside the nose.  

It is important to note that nystatin cream is not to be used for vaginal yeast infections. If you are experiencing a vaginal yeast infection, we do offer specific treatment which you can access using this link.

Who should avoid using nystatin cream

Nystatin cream should not be used by individuals who are allergic to any of the medication’s ingredients. 

Nystatin cream vs. ketoconazole

Similar to nystatin, ketoconazole is also an antifungal cream used to treat skin infections. However, nystatin cream specifically treats infections caused by yeast, while ketoconazole treats systemic fungal infections.  

Ketoconazole is also an antifungal medication.  It can be applied topically and is often used in shampoos to treat scalp infections.

Unlike Nystatin, Ketoconazole can be prescribed as an oral medication to treat serious systemic fungal infections, although it has mostly been supplanted by safer alternatives.

Active Ingredients

The active ingredient in nystatin cream is nystatin with 100,000 USP units per gram.

Inactive Ingredients

The inactive ingredients in nystatin cream include polysorbate 60, algeldrate, titanium dioxide, glyceryl monostearate, PEG-8 Stearate, silicon dioxide, sorbic acid, propylene glycol, ethylenediamine, sorbitol, methylparaben, propylparaben, hydrochloric acid, petrolatum, and water. 

Inactive ingredients and concentrations may vary between different manufacturers.

How is nystatin cream applied?

Nystatin cream should be applied as directed by your doctor. Typically, a thin layer is applied to cover the affected area twice daily. For best results:

The area should be cleaned and thoroughly dried before applying.
The medication should be applied at the same time every day.
Your hands should be washed thoroughly after application.

How long does it take nystatin cream to work?

Nystatin usually starts working after two days. However, it is important to complete your course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if symptoms begin to disappear before you're done with treatment.

Why do I need to continue using the cream even if my symptoms go away?

Stopping treatment early may allow the fungus to continue to replicate and may cause the infection to return.

What if I miss an application?

If you miss an application, apply the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed application and resume your usual schedule. Do not apply two doses at a time to catch up.

Nystatin Side Effects

Side effects have been reported in less than 0.1% of patients using nystatin cream.

Common side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions
• Burning 
• Itching
• Rash
• Eczema
• Pain on application

Speak to your doctor if any of these side effects cause severe discomfort or persist.