About Nystatin

NHS medicines information on nystatin - what it's used for and key facts.

Nystatin is an antifungal medicine. It's used to treat or prevent infections caused by a fungus or yeast. These include:

• oral thrush (mouth thrush)
• skin infections

Nystatin kills the fungus and gets rid of the infection. It can also be used to stop you getting an infection.

Nystatin is only available on prescription.

It comes as a liquid (suspension) that you swirl around your mouth and then swallow.

It also comes mixed with steroids, antiseptics or antibacterials as a cream or ointment. Brand names for creams and ointments containing nystatin include Trimovate, Timodine, Nystaform and Nystaform HC.

Key facts

• Nystatin liquid, cream or ointment usually starts to work after 2 days.
• You usually take nystatin liquid 4 times a day after meals and before bedtime. You usually use nystatin cream or ointment 2 or 3 times a day.
• It's important not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking the liquid.
• Keep taking or using nystatin liquid for 2 days after your condition is better. This will help to stop it coming back again.
• Side effects of nystatin liquid can include diarrhoea and feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting).

If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.