Sometimes your skin, especially in the folds of your armpits and groin, gets red, itchy, and flaky, doesn't it? Nappy rash in babies is similar. So, Nystatin powder is a medicine that doctors often recommend for yeast infections like this. Today, let's talk about this medicine, how to use it, and everything you need to know.
What kind of medicine is Nystatin?
Simply put, Nystatin is an antifungal. This means that it kills harmful fungi that grow on our skin. Think of it like there are several types of enemies that can cause disease in our bodies - fungi, bacteria, and viruses. This medicine called Nystatin is like a special soldier that only targets and attacks fungi. It does not work on bacterial infections or viral infections. So, for example, applying it to a boil caused by bacteria will have no effect.
This medicine may be available in the market under different brand names such as Mycostatin and Nystop. However, they all contain the same active ingredient, Nystatin.
Things to tell your doctor before using the medicine
After your doctor prescribes this medication, there are a few things you should be aware of. Be sure to discuss these with your doctor.
- If you have allergies to Nystatin or other medications: Tell your doctor if you have ever had a rash, itching, or swelling on your skin after using this medication. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to any other medications, foods, or dyes.
- If you have large areas of skin that are burned or injured: When the skin is injured or burned, the body is more likely to absorb the medicine. Therefore, if you have such a condition, you should tell your doctor.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: Use any medication with extreme caution during this time. So, inform your doctor about your condition.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are breastfeeding your baby, tell your doctor about it as well.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medication, it's important to use it correctly. Let's take a look at how to use Nystatin powder.
1. For topical use only: This is a medicine for topical use only . Do not take it by mouth or put it into any other body cavity for any reason.
2. Wash your hands:Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the powder. However, if you are applying the medicine to an infection on your hands, wash your hands only before applying the medicine.
3. Be careful with your eyes: Be very careful not to get any in your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, open your eyes and rinse them thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.
4. Clean the infected area: Before applying the medication, gently wash the infected area with soapy water, pat dry with a clean cloth, and dry thoroughly. Drying thoroughly is very important because moisture helps the fungus grow.
5. Apply the medicine: Apply the powder in a thin layer, covering the infected area and a small amount around it.
6. Complete the deadline: This is the mistake that many people make.
The doctor told you to use it for exactly the number of days you should use it. You may notice that your symptoms will start to improve after two or three days. But don't stop taking it half way through. If you do, the fungus that remains on the skin's surface may grow back and make the infection worse.
- What if you miss a dose? If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (e.g., within 1-2 hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Never take a double dose.
- What if you overdose? Since this is a topical medication, the chances of an overdose are low. However, if someone accidentally drinks this, immediately call the National Poisons Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What should be done to prevent the infection from coming back?
While using the medication, we also need to work hard to prevent the infection from coming back. The table below shows some things you can do to help.
| Type of infection | Things to do |
|---|---|
| General advice (for any fungal infection) |
|
| Jock Itch | |
| Foot Infections (Athlete's Foot) |
Are there any interactions with other medications?
Since Nystatin is a topical medication, it does not usually have major interactions with other medications we take.
But, most importantly, do not apply any other cream, ointment, oil, or powder to the area where you applied Nystatin powder without telling your doctor. Doing so may reduce the effectiveness of Nystatin. Also, don't forget to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
What are the possible side effects of this?
As with any medicine, some people may experience minor side effects when using Nystatin. But don't worry, these are usually not serious.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| When to seek immediate medical advice | |
| Allergic Reaction (skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the lips/tongue/face, difficulty breathing) | Stop using the medicine and contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital. |
| Severe inflammation, itching, or peeling at the application site | Stop using the medicine and talk to your doctor. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Slight numbness or discomfort at the injection site | This usually goes away in a few days. Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
Take-Home Message
- Nystatin powder is only used to treat fungal infections . It does not work for bacterial or viral infections.
- Even if your symptoms subside, take the medicine for the full duration prescribed by your doctor . Do not stop taking it halfway.
- It is very important to clean and dry the infected area thoroughly before applying the medication. Moisture helps the fungus grow.
- While applying the medication, wear loose, sweat-wicking clothing, such as cotton .
- If signs of an allergy (extreme itching, swelling) occur, discontinue use and seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to others without the advice of a doctor, even if the symptoms are similar.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What is Nystatin Topical Powder / Nystop?
This is a very effective powder used to clear up severe 'Fungal Infections - Candida / Yeast Infections' on the skin! Doctors prescribe this powder to dry out and heal severe yeast infections (Intertrigo), especially in areas where the body is wet from sweating and where the skin rubs against each other (e.g. under the breasts, between the legs, armpits).
💬 How does this Nystatin powder kill fungus/yeast on our skin?
For a fungal/yeast cell (Candida) to survive, it needs to have a strong wall/covering (Cell membrane - made of Ergosterol) around it! When this powder is applied there, it directly attacks the wall of that fungus and makes big holes in it (Binds to ergosterol). When the wall is damaged, all the contents inside that fungal cell leak out and it dies instantly.
💬 What is the advantage of applying this powder instead of a cream?
The main reason for the growth of this 'fungus/yeast (Candida)' is the 'moisture and sweat' that is retained in those places. If you apply another cream or ointment there, it will make the place even more moist. Therefore, the fungus will not heal. But when you apply this Nystatin powder, while killing the fungus, it completely absorbs that sweat/moisture and dries it out (Absorbs moisture), so the disease is cured very quickly and 100%.
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