Nystatin
NHS information about the medicine nystatin, including what it's used for, who can take it, how to take it and side effects.
What nystatin is for
Nystatin is an antifungal medicine. It's used to treat or prevent thrush or other fungal infections in your mouth or throat.
There are also creams and ointments that contain nystatin and a steroid or antibiotic medicine. These are used to treat nappy rash and other skin conditions.
How to take nystatin
Nystatin comes as a liquid you hold in your mouth and then swallow (oral suspension).
To treat oral thrush, you'll usually need to take the liquid 4 times a day for 7 days, and then for 2 days after your symptoms have gone.
When taking nystatin liquid:
- shake the bottle well and use the syringe or cup that comes with it to make sure you measure the correct dose
- try to hold the liquid in your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing, if possible – this will help the medicine work better, but do not worry if you swallow it quicker than this
- try to space the doses equally throughout the day
- it's best to take it after food
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.
More advice about giving medicine to children
Side effects of nystatin
Like all medicines, nystatin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Possible side effects of nystatin include:
- stomach pain, discomfort or bloating
- indigestion
- diarrhoea
- feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting)
Nystatin will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery.
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of nystatin.
For a full list, see the leaflet that came with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot take nystatin
Most adults and children can take nystatin. It's also sometimes prescribed for newborn babies.
But nystatin is not suitable for some people. For example, it may not be suitable if:
- you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from nystatin or other antifungal medicine
- you have a fungal infection in your lungs or on your skin
Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take or use it.
Breastfeeding and nystatin
Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're breastfeeding. They may recommend using nystatin if the benefits outweigh the risks.
If you're taking nystatin while breastfeeding, speak to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and nystatin
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking nystatin if you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant.
They may recommend using nystatin if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Taking nystatin with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with nystatin.
Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure you can take it.
Food, drink and alcohol with nystatin
You can eat and drink as normal while taking nystatin.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- find out more about nystatin on the Medicines for Children website
- speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice