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Nystatin Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 17, 2024.

Applies to nystatin topical: topical cream, topical ointment, topical powder.

Serious side effects of nystatin topical

Along with its needed effects, nystatin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking nystatin topical:

Managing side effects (general information)

For healthcare professionals

Applies to nystatin topical: topical cream, topical kit, topical ointment, topical powder, vaginal tablet.

Dermatologic adverse events

Dermatologic side effects associated with nystatin topical powder, cream, and ointment have included skin irritation, burning, itching, rash, eczema, and pain on application in less than 0.1% of patients.[Ref]

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects associated with nystatin vaginal tablets have included vaginal irritation, burning, and itching. At least one case of severe vulvovaginitis has also been reported.[Ref]

A 64-year-old female experienced severe vulvovaginitis while receiving intravaginal nystatin therapy for Candida glabrata infection. She was administered nystatin vaginal tablets, 100,000 units twice daily for 14 days. She returned immediately after having completed the course complaining of intense skin rash in the vulvar area accompanied by severe irritation, burning, and itching. Therapy with a hydrocortisone cream and intramuscular betamethasone dipropionate was initiated. A week later, she had marked improvement with clearing of the vulvovaginal erythema and edema.[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects associated with nystatin topical powder, cream, and ointment have included allergic reactions and allergic contact dermatitis in less than 0.1% of patients. Stevens-Johnson syndrome has also been reported.

References

1. Hills RJ, Ive FA (1993) "Contact sensitivity to nystatin in Timodine." Contact Dermatitis, 28, p. 48

2. Garty BZ (1991) "Stevens-Johnson syndrome associated with nystatin treatment." Arch Dermatol, 127, p. 741-2

3. Wasilewski C Jr (1971) "Allergic contact dermatitis from nystatin." Arch Dermatol, 104, p. 437

4. Wasilewski C Jr (1970) "Allergic contact dermatitis from nystatin." Arch Dermatol, 102, p. 216-7

5. Quirce S, Parra F, Lazaro M, Gomez MI, Sanchez Cano M (1991) "Generalized dermatitis due to oral nystatin." Contact Dermatitis, 25, p. 197-8

6. Lang E, Goos M (1985) "Combined allergy to tolnaftate and nystatin." Contact Dermatitis, 12, p. 182

7. de Groot AC, Conemans JM (1990) "Nystatin allergy. Petrolatum is not the optimal vehicle for patch testing." Dermatol Clin, 8, p. 153-5

8. (2001) "Product Information. Mycostatin Pastilles (nystatin)." Ernest Jackson & Co. Ltd

9. (2022) "Product Information. Mycostatin (nystatin)." Apothecon Inc

Further information

Nystatin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

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