Have you been prescribed Nystatin pills? Let's find out exactly what this medicine is! (Nystatin)

Sometimes when a doctor prescribes a medicine for us, we are left with a few questions about what it is for, how to use it, and what to be careful about. Today we are going to talk about one such medicine. It is a pill called Nystatin. Perhaps your doctor has prescribed this medicine for you too. Let's see what really happens with this.

What kind of medicine is Nystatin?

Simply put, Nystatin is an antifungal . It is a medicine that helps control and eliminate certain fungal or yeast infections that occur in our body. This type of pill is especially used for fungal infections that occur in our digestive system, that is, in the intestines .

Think of it like our garden. When weeds appear, we apply herbicide. When insects appear, we apply insecticide. Similarly, when germs enter our bodies, we need to give the right medicine for that germ.

• Antibiotics are given for bacterial infections.
• Antiviral medications are given for viral infections.
• Antifungals like this are given for fungal infections.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before your doctor prescribes Nystatin, it is very important to give you a complete description of your health condition. Because that information will determine whether this medicine is suitable for you, and how it should be given. Be sure to mention these points in particular.

• If you have kidney disease: The kidneys are like a filter in our body. Some medications are filtered and eliminated through the kidneys. So if there is any weakness in the kidneys, it is essential to inform the doctor about it.
• Allergies to Nystatin or other substances: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to Nystatin in the past. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to other medications, foods, or dyes.
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: Any medication should be taken with extreme caution during pregnancy. Therefore, if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon, you should tell your doctor.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: Some medications can pass to your baby through breast milk. Therefore, if you are a breastfeeding mother, inform your doctor about this and use the medication only as directed.

How should I use the medicine?

This is also very simple, but it must be followed exactly.

1. Drink with a glass of water: Swallow the Nystatin tablet whole with a glass of water.

2. Take it on time: Follow the exact times your doctor tells you to take your medicine. If you take it three times a day, about 8 hours apart, you will get the maximum benefits from the medicine.

3. Complete the course: This is the most important thing. Some people stop taking the medicine after taking it for two or three days and the pain subsides a little. Never do that. If you do, the infection may not be completely cured and may recur. If the doctor tells you to take it for 7 days, take it for all 7 days.

4. If you miss a dose: If you suddenly forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.

What if I overdose?

If you think you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose, do not panic. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Possible side effects of taking the medicine

Like any medicine, Nystatin can cause minor side effects. However, not everyone gets them. There is nothing to worry about, but it is important to be aware of these.

Are there any problems with other medications?

Nystatin tablets are very poorly absorbed by the body, so they usually don't cause major interactions with other medications. However, to be on the safe side, it's best to tell your doctor about all other medications you're taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements).

How to store the medicine?

• Keep away from children: This is the first and most important thing. Always keep medicines out of the reach of children, in a lockable cupboard.
• Store at room temperature: Protect from extreme heat and cold. Generally, a temperature between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius is sufficient.
• Protect from moisture: Do not store medication in areas with high humidity, such as the bathroom.
• Discard after expiration: If the expiration date on the medicine package has passed, discard the medicine without using it.

If your symptoms do not improve, or if they seem to be getting worse, see your doctor again immediately.

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