Key takeaways
Nystatin (Nystop, Nyamyc, Klayesta) and clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) are both antifungal medications, but they have some key differences. Nystatin is available by prescription only and is used to treat yeast infections on the skin. It comes in various forms like cream, ointment, and powder, and is safe for all ages, including babies. On the other hand, clotrimazole is available over-the-counter and treats a wider range of fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. Clotrimazole is suitable for adults and children over 2 years old. While both medications are generally well-tolerated, nystatin is specifically for yeast infections, whereas clotrimazole can treat multiple types of fungal infections. Additionally, clotrimazole might take up to a month to fully treat certain infections, whereas nystatin can start working within a few days.
