Uses
This medication is used to treat vaginal fungal infections, commonly called vaginal yeast infections. It helps to reduce itchiness, redness, and irritating discharge. Nystatin works by stopping the growth of the fungus.
How To Use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This product is for vaginal use. With clean hands, fill the applicator with this cream to the level indicated. Insert the applicator high into the vagina, then push the plunger to release the medication. Use this medication usually once a day at bedtime, or twice a day in the morning and evening, as directed by your doctor. If the applicator is reusable, follow the product instructions on how to clean it.
To prevent medication from leaking out of the vagina, lie down as soon as possible after use. You may use a sanitary napkin to prevent clothing stains. Do not use tampons while using this medication because they can decrease its effectiveness. In most cases, you should not use medicated douches during nystatin treatment. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use this medication at the same time(s) each day.
Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days and even if you get your menstrual period. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
Though very unlikely, nystatin may cause vaginal irritation. If this effect lasts or gets worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using nystatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
This medication should be used with caution during pregnancy and only when clearly needed. Check with your doctor before using the applicator if you are or think you may be pregnant. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.