Nystatin: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When you have a stubborn yeast infection—whether it’s in your mouth, throat, or on your skin—nystatin, a topical and oral antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections caused by Candida species. Also known as Candida treatment, it works by breaking down the cell walls of fungi without harming human cells. Unlike antibiotics that target bacteria, nystatin is built for fungi. It doesn’t get absorbed into your bloodstream, which makes it safe for long-term use in the mouth or on the skin, but also means it only works where it’s applied.

Nystatin is most commonly used for oral thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth caused by Candida albicans, often seen in babies, older adults, or people using inhalers. Doctors also prescribe it for vaginal yeast infections in cream or suppository form, and for diaper rash caused by yeast. It’s not a cure-all—some strains of Candida can become resistant, and if your infection doesn’t clear up in a week or two, you might need something stronger like fluconazole. But for mild to moderate cases, nystatin is a first-line choice because it’s cheap, well-tolerated, and has almost no systemic side effects.

You’ll find nystatin in liquids you swish and swallow, creams you rub on rashes, and even powders for skin folds. It’s not something you take once and forget—consistency matters. You need to use it for the full course, even if symptoms fade early. Skipping doses lets leftover fungi bounce back. And while it’s available over-the-counter in some countries, in others, you need a prescription. Always check with your doctor before using it for something new, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or treating a child.

People often mix up nystatin with other antifungals like clotrimazole or miconazole. Those work similarly but are absorbed slightly differently. Nystatin’s big advantage? It’s been around since the 1950s and still works well for most common yeast infections. It doesn’t mess with your liver like some oral antifungals do, and it’s safe for long-term use in sensitive areas. That’s why it’s still in use today—simple, reliable, and targeted.

What you’ll find below are real-world guides and comparisons about how nystatin fits into broader treatment plans, what conditions it’s used for, how it stacks up against other options, and what to watch out for when using it. Some posts cover how it helps with thrush in babies, others compare it to newer antifungals, and a few even talk about using it alongside lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence. Whether you’re dealing with a persistent rash, a sore mouth after antibiotics, or just want to understand why your doctor picked this medication, you’ll find clear, no-fluff advice here.