Nystatin is a medication used to combat fungal infections, specifically those caused by yeasts. It is an antifungal agent that addresses localized fungal overgrowth. This medication is commonly prescribed to manage infections in certain areas of the body.
Nystatin’s Primary Function
Nystatin functions by targeting the cell membranes of fungi. It binds to ergosterol, a key component found in fungal cell walls but not in human cells. This binding disrupts the fungal cell membrane, creating openings that lead to the leakage of essential internal components. This process prevents the fungus from growing and multiplying, resolving the infection.
Nystatin primarily acts locally where it is applied. When taken orally, it is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, limiting its effect to the gastrointestinal tract and areas it directly contacts. The drug is largely eliminated from the body unchanged in stool, which supports its localized action.
Administering Nystatin Oral Suspension
Nystatin oral suspension is typically administered by mouth. For infections affecting the mouth and throat, such as oral thrush, patients should swish the liquid around in their mouth. It is advised to hold the medication in the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing, allowing prolonged contact with the infected areas.
After administering the dose, avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This waiting period helps ensure the medication remains on the affected surfaces and can exert its full therapeutic effect. Dosing typically involves taking the suspension four times daily, with specific amounts varying based on age and the condition being treated. For infants and young children, the medication might be applied with a dropper, placing half the dose on each side of the mouth.
Why Swallowing Nystatin is Different
Swallowing Nystatin oral suspension depends on the fungal infection’s location. For infections limited to the mouth and throat, healthcare providers often instruct patients to swish the medication and then swallow it. This ensures the medication coats the affected areas in the oral cavity and reaches the esophagus if the infection extends there. Swallowing is generally considered safe due to Nystatin’s minimal absorption into the bloodstream.
When Nystatin is prescribed for fungal infections within the gastrointestinal tract, such as intestinal candidiasis, swallowing the oral suspension is the intended method of administration. The medication needs to travel through the digestive system to reach the site of infection. Even when swallowed, Nystatin largely passes through the digestive system without being absorbed into the body, acting directly on the fungal cells in the gut. This means that while swallowing is safe, it does not treat widespread fungal infections throughout the body.
When Nystatin is Prescribed and Its Side Effects
Nystatin oral suspension is commonly prescribed for fungal infections caused by Candida species, particularly oral thrush, which manifests as white patches in the mouth. It is also used to treat candidiasis of the esophagus and intestines. The typical duration of treatment for oral thrush is usually between 7 to 14 days. It is advised to continue treatment for at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved to help prevent the infection from returning.
Most individuals tolerate Nystatin well, and side effects are generally mild. Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Some individuals may also experience irritation within the mouth. While less common, allergic reactions such as skin rashes or hives can occur. If any severe side effects develop or if the infection does not improve, it is important to contact a healthcare professional for further guidance.