Many people suffer from skin problems such as acne, dermatitis and fungal infections. One of the treatment options is the topical use of medications, such as nystatin. However, doubts arise about the safety and effectiveness of sleeping with nystatin on your face. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and risks of using topical nystatin and whether it is safe to sleep with it on your face.
Do not use nystatin cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid applying nystatin to these sensitive areas unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor. If nystatin accidentally gets into your eyes, nose, or mouth, wash the area with cool tap water and contact your local poison control center.
Nystatin (Mycostatin®, Nilstat®) is an antifungal medication used to prevent or treat fungal infections of the mouth in children undergoing liver transplantation.
Nystatin dosage
In children, nystatin is usually administered orally (as a liquid suspension, tablets or lozenges) or through the skin (through the use of cream, powder or ointment).
How to take nystatin correctly
If your child is using the oral suspension, shake the bottle well before pouring in the dose of nystatin. Your child should put half of the total dose in one side of the mouth and the remaining half in the other side. Your child should then swish the suspension around their entire mouth, keeping the liquid inside as long as possible before swallowing. (Before swallowing, your child can also gargle.)
Nystatin should be taken with food and after other medications. Do not eat or drink anything for 30 minutes after taking nystatin.
Nystatin is available by prescription in topical form, meaning it comes as a cream, ointment, or powder applied directly to the affected area. Topical nystatin is approved to treat fungal infections of the skin. It can also sometimes be used to treat vaginal yeast infection if available in capsule suppository form, although this depends on your doctor's preference.
Just like oral nystatin, the topical version works when it comes into contact with the fungus, attacking and killing the fungal cells. Specifically, it targets the protective walls of fungal cells, causing them to deflate and die.
Missed Doses
If your child forgets to take a dose, it should be taken as soon as you or your child remembers. If it is two hours before the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your child's usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Nystatin Side Effects
In rare cases, some children taking nystatin experience side effects, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Gas or diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
If your child has problems with any of these effects, talk to your doctor or transplant coordinator. Often, these side effects go away as your child's body adjusts to the medication.
Nystatin Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications your child is taking so you can be warned about interactions and prevent them.
Nystatin Storage
Store at room temperature. Do not store frozen.
Nystatin Availability
Most pharmacies stock nystatin, but call your pharmacist at least five business days before you need to fill a nystatin prescription to ensure the medication is available.
Conclusion
- Topical use of nystatin is a safe and effective option for treating skin problems
- Sleeping with nystatin on your face may be safe if necessary precautions are taken
- Consult a dermatologist before using any topical medication on your skin
When using topical nystatin to treat skin problems, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Although sleeping with nystatin on your face may be safe, it is important to consult a dermatologist before use and perform a sensitivity test. Always remember to follow the recommendations for use and remove nystatin in the morning. With proper use, topical nystatin can be an effective option for treating skin problems.
