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Nystatin Cream (nystatin) is a topical antifungal treatment. When applied directly to infected skin it destroys fungal cells, preventing growth and spread of the fungus while helping the immune system overcome the infection.

This product is not for use directly on mucous membranes and should not be applied to open wounds. It provides no benefit in bacterial or viral infections.

Conditions Treated

Nystatin Cream is effective against Candida and Trichophyton species of fungus, which are responsible for the most common fungal infections, including:

• Intertriginous (skin fold) infections
• Jock itch
• Athlete's foot
• Nappy/diaper rash
• Yeast infections in the groin area (not inside the vagina or rectum)
• Various skin rashes and boils

Fungal infections are very common; it's a rare person who won't experience at least one at some point. Fungi like the notorious Candida are found naturally on and in the human body and many types are beneficial in relatively small numbers. Many internal and external factors can cause imbalances, however, leading to an infection. Harmful strains of fungus can also be picked up by handling contaminated materials that contacted infected skin at some point.

Infections typically start mild, but can quickly become painful and itchy. Left untreated---particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems---fungal infections can become systemic, posing risk of very serious complications. Systemic infections are treated with antifungal tablets or injections, which also carry much greater risk of potentially serious side effects than topical treatments like Nystatin Cream.

Overcoming Fungal Infections

Nystatin Cream is easy to use once a fungal infection has been identified:

• Clean and dry the infected skin.
• Apply the cream liberally over the infected area, extending a short way on to healthy skin, two or three times per day.
• Do not cover the application site with tight clothing or airtight dressings unless explicitly instructed to do so by a doctor. Loose, breathable clothing is fine.
• Treatment should continue until the infection is resolved. If no significant improvements are seen after a week of treatment, consider alternative options. Infections that persist after several weeks of treatment may call for a stronger medication; consult a doctor.
• Continue treatment for several days after the infection appears to have cleared up to ensure any lingering fungi are destroyed and help prevent the development of resistant strains.

Treatment with a product like Nystatin Cream is an important step in managing fungal infections, but it is not the only one---care should be taken to prevent re-infection or spread to other parts of the body, or to other members of the household. Some tips to keep in mind:

• Wash clothing, bedding, towels, and any other material that comes into contact with infected skin frequently.
• Disinfect any tools that contact infected areas, such as nail clippers used on infected fingernails or toenails, immediately after use.
• Do not let infected skin come into direct contact with other people or pets.
• Try not to let infected skin contact upholstery or other materials that are difficult to disinfect.
• If the infection is on the feet, do not walk around barefoot.
• Consider an antifungal powder, such as Daktarin Powder, for shoes, clothing, and other materials that contact infected skin. Use with caution if children or pets may come into contact with it.

Side Effects

Nystatin Cream is unlikely to produce side effects if used as directed. It may sting when first applied. Redness, inflammation, pain, severe itchiness, and formation of a rash or blisters are signs of an allergic reaction; if this happens the cream should be washed off immediately and use discontinued. A doctor or pharmacist can suggest an alternative treatment unrelated to nystatin.

Because little of the product is absorbed into the bloodstream, Nystatin Cream is unlikely to cause harm to unborn or nursing babies if used while pregnant or breastfeeding. However, care should be taken to avoid getting the medication on the breast where a nursing infant may ingest it.

Nystatin Cream is unlikely to interact with other medications, but applying other skincare products to the application site may reduce its effectiveness.