Nystatin: uses, dosing, side effects & brands

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What is nystatin?

Nystatin is a polyene antifungal antibiotic obtained from Streptomyces noursei . The molecular formula is C 47 H 75 NO 17 , and the molecular weight is 926.13. Structural formula: Nystatin Cream USP is for dermatologic use. Nystatin Cream USP for topical use, contains 100,000 USP nystatin units per gram. Inactive ingredients: emulsifying wax, glycerin, isopropyl myristate, lactic acid, purified water, sodium hydroxide, and sorbic acid. structural formula

What kind of drug is nystatin?

The FDA classifies nystatin as a polyene antifungal. If you are checking whether it is safe to combine with something else, the class is what matters — two drugs from the same class usually should not be stacked.

Can you take nystatin with other medicines?

It depends on the medicine. We check it against the FDA labels rather than guessing: our interaction checker searches each drug's own label for the other and quotes what it says, naming the section it came from. Run nystatin against whatever else you take — and remember that a label not naming a drug is not the same as that combination being safe.

What brand names is nystatin sold under?

We track 6 nystatin-containing products in the U.S.: Nysert, Nilstat, Nystatin, Barstatin 100, Candex and Mycostatin. They are the same active ingredient; they differ in form, manufacturer, price and FDA recall record.

What forms does nystatin come in?

Across the brands we track, nystatin is currently marketed as suppository, tablet, topical, suspension and powder, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory. Each form is dosed differently — follow the label for the exact product you were prescribed.

Is there a generic nystatin?

Yes. Our catalog lists 2 generic nystatin products alongside the brand versions. A generic has the same active ingredient and must meet the FDA's bioequivalence standard; it usually costs less. Ask your pharmacist which one your plan covers.