What it means
A polyene antifungal that breaks down the fungal cell membrane. It is barely absorbed from the gut or skin, so it acts only where it is applied. The liquid treats thrush in the mouth; creams, ointments and powders treat yeast infections in skin folds and diaper areas. Side effects are few, mostly mild stomach upset with the liquid.
For the nurse
For thrush, teach the client to swish the liquid around the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing, after meals and mouth care. For infants, the liquid can be put on each side of the mouth with a dropper or swab. Remove dentures first and clean them as well.
At a glance
| Drug class | polyene antifungal |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Mycostatin, Nystop |
| Spanish | nistatina |
| Also written | Mycostatin, Nystop |
Related terms
clotrimazole
An antifungal drug used on the skin, in the vagina or as a mouth lozenge to treat yeast and other fungal infections.