Pharmacokinetics

Gastrointestinal absorption of nystatin (nystatin (oral)) is insignificant. Most orally administered nystatin (nystatin (oral)) is passed unchanged in the stool. In patients with renal insufficiency receiving oral therapy with conventional dosage forms, significant plasma concentrations of nystatin (nystatin (oral)) may occasionally occur.

Microbiology

Nystatin (nystatin (oral)) is both fungistatic and fungicidal in vitro against a wide variety of yeasts and yeast-like fungi. Candida albicans demonstrates no significant resistance to nystatin (nystatin (oral)) in vitro on repeated subculture in increasing levels of nystatin (nystatin (oral)) ; other Candida species become quite resistant. Generally, resistance does not develop in vivo. Nystatin (nystatin (oral)) acts by binding to sterols in the cell membrane of susceptible Candida species with a resultant change in membrane permeability allowing leakage of intracellular components. Nystatin (nystatin (oral)) exhibits no appreciable activity against bacteria, protozoa, or viruses.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/1/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.