Is nystatin topical an antibiotic?

No, nystatin topical isn't an [antibiotic](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/penicillin-antibiotics/when-do-you-really-need-antibiotics). It's an [antifungal](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/polyene-antifungals), which means it treats skin infections caused by fungi. It doesn't work for bacterial infections.

Is nystatin topical over the counter?

Nystatin topical isn't sold [over the counter](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/fungal-infection/otc-antifungal-cream). You'll need a prescription from your healthcare professional to get it from the pharmacy.

How long does nystatin topical take to work?

Nystatin topical usually starts to relieve symptoms within the first few days. In particular, the topical ointment can begin working in as little as [24 to 72 hours](https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=6c091c66-2e4d-4412-b7bf-35315dc8152f&type=display#:~:text=often%20occurring%20within-,24%20to%2072%20hours,-after%20the%20initiation). How long you’ll need to use it depends on the type and how serious your infection is. Even if your symptoms start to improve, be sure to finish your full treatment so the infection goes away completely.

Can you put nystatin topical on your private area?

Yes, nystatin topical can be used on the irritated skin on the outside of the groin to treat certain fungal infections, such as [diaper rash](https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/childrens-health/diaper-rash-treatment). You can apply it to the skin in that area, but don’t put it *inside* the vagina. If the area stays very moist, the powder form might work better than the cream or ointment. Ask your prescriber if you’re not sure which option is best for you.

Does nystatin topical treat ringworm?

Studies show that nystatin topical [doesn't work well](https://jddonline.com/articles/the-persistence-of-nystatin-use-for-dermatophyte-infections-S1545961623P0e49X#:~:text=Topical%20nystatin%20is%20limited%20in,2) for treating [ringworm](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/ringworm/what-is-ringworm), so dermatologists don't usually prescribe it. [Other antifungal medications](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/ringworm/ringworm-otc-home-treatment) are much more effective and are available both over the counter and by prescription.

Is nystatin topical a steroid?

No, nystatin topical isn't a [steroid](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/corticosteroids). Steroids are usually used to relieve skin irritation due to [eczema](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/eczema), [allergies](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/allergies), or other causes of skin inflammation. Nystatin topical is an antifungal medication that treats yeast infections on the skin by targeting the fungus itself. If you aren't sure which topical product is right for you, talk to your prescriber.

nystatin topical

Generic Nyamyc

Used for Candidiasis, Thrush, Yeast Infection

Nystatin topical is a prescription antifungal you use on your skin to treat certain fungal skin infections, like yeast infections. It's safe for all ages, even babies with diaper rash. Nystatin topical comes as a cream, ointment, or powder. You usually apply it to the affected skin 2 to 3 times a day. Sometimes, it can cause mild side effects like itching or burning where you put it on.

Reviewed by:

Ally Tsai, PharmD

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Last reviewed on September 6, 2025

What is Nystatin topical?

What is Nystatin topical used for?

Fungal skin infections, like yeast infections

How Nystatin topical works

Nystatin topical is an antifungal. It works by breaking down the protective covering of the fungus. This stops the fungus from growing and kills it, helping to clear the infection.

Are you looking for information on nystatin tablets instead?

When does Nystatin topical start working?Time passed since treatment started:

HOURS

DAYS

Initial effect

WEEKS

Full effect

MONTHS

Drug facts

Common Brands	Nystop, Nyamyc, Klayesta
Drug Class	Antifungal
Controlled Substance Classification	Not a controlled medication
Generic Status	Lower-cost generic available
Availability	Prescription only

Common Brands

Nystop, Nyamyc, Klayesta

Drug Class

Antifungal

Controlled Substance Classification

Not a controlled medication

Generic Status

Lower-cost generic available

Availability

Prescription only

Side effects of Nystatin topical

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Burning or pain where applied
Itching
Rash
Eczema

Nystatin topical serious side effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

Severe allergic reactions: rash or hives, swelling of your face or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

When do Nystatin topical possible side effects begin and end?

Time passed since treatment started:

MMINUTES

HHOURS

DDAYS

WWEEKS

MMONTHS

Burning feeling on skin

Eczema

Source: DailyMed

The following Nystatin topical side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

Irritation inside the mouth
Upset stomach

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Avg retail price

$42.80(Save 73.74%)

$11.24

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Pros and cons of Nystatin topical

Pros

Comes as an ointment, cream, and powder
Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
Safe for all ages, including babies

Cons

Applied onto skin multiple times a day
Only treats some fungal skin infections, not bacteria or viruses
Need a prescription to get it

Pharmacist tips for Nystatin topical

You'll usually apply nystatin topical 2 or 3 times a day, but always follow the exact instructions from your prescriber. Skipping doses can make your infection last longer.
Make sure to finish your full course of nystatin topical, even if your skin looks better. Stopping the medication too early can cause your infection to come back and be harder to treat.
Use nystatin topical only on your skin. Don't put the medication in your eyes, nose, or ears. Never put it inside the vagina to treat a vaginal yeast infection.
Wash your hands before and after applying nystatin topical to help prevent getting the medication in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse your eyes with water or saline and call your prescriber if the irritation doesn’t go away.
Some mild burning or itching can happen after using nystatin topical. But if you notice a rash or have side effects that don't go away, contact your prescriber.

Common questions about Nystatin

No, Nystatin isn't an antibiotic. It's an antifungal, which means it treats skin infections caused by fungi. It doesn't work for bacterial infections.

Nystatin isn't sold over the counter. You'll need a prescription from your healthcare professional to get it from the pharmacy.

Yes, Nystatin can help with itching if the itching is caused by a fungal infection on your skin. It works by killing the fungus that causes the infection, which can relieve symptoms like redness, irritation, and itching. If your itching doesn’t improve or gets worse, let your prescriber know because you might need a different treatment.

Nystatin usually starts to relieve symptoms within the first few days. In particular, the topical ointment can begin working in as little as 24 to 72 hours. How long you’ll need to use it depends on the type and how serious your infection is. Even if your symptoms start to improve, be sure to finish your full treatment so the infection goes away completely.

Yes, Nystatin can be used on the irritated skin on the outside of the groin to treat certain fungal infections, such as diaper rash. You can apply it to the skin in that area, but don’t put it inside the vagina. If the area stays very moist, the powder form might work better than the cream or ointment. Ask your prescriber if you’re not sure which option is best for you.

Studies show that Nystatin doesn't work well for treating ringworm, so dermatologists don't usually prescribe it. Other antifungal medications are much more effective and are available both over the counter and by prescription.

You shouldn't use Nystatin if you've ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients. You also shouldn’t use it for infections it doesn’t treat, like bacterial or viral infections, because it won’t help. Always check with your prescriber before using Nystatin to make sure it’s the right medication for your condition.

No, Nystatin isn't a steroid. Steroids are usually used to relieve skin irritation due to eczema, allergies, or other causes of skin inflammation. Nystatin is an antifungal medication that treats yeast infections on the skin by targeting the fungus itself. If you aren't sure which topical product is right for you, talk to your prescriber.

Risks and warnings for Nystatin topical

Nystatin topical can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

Use only on your skin

Nystatin topical should only be used on your skin to treat certain fungal infections. Don’t put it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or ears, and never put it inside the vagina. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed this medication, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 as soon as possible.

Nystatin topical dosage

The average cost for 1 tube of 30g of 100000 units/g of Nystatin topical is $16.04 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 65.44% off the average retail price of $46.41.

Tube of cream

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
30g of 100000 units/g	1 tube	$16.04	$16.04
15g of 100000 units/g	1 tube	$12.11	$12.11

Typical dosage for Nystatin topical

Cream and ointment: Apply a generous amount to the affected area(s) 2 times a day until the infection is healed or as directed by your prescriber.
Powder: Apply to the affected area(s) 2 to 3 times daily until the infection is healed or as directed by your prescriber

How much does Nystatin topical cost?

To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.

Nystop (brand)

GoodRx lowest price

$11.24

(save 79.82%)

Nystatin topical (generic)

GoodRx lowest price

$11.24

(save 92.28%)

View prices and coupons

What are alternatives to Nystatin topical?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Nystatin topical. Compare a few possible alternatives below.

Nystatin topical

Used for:

Fungal skin infections, like yeast infections

$11.24Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Ketoconazole cream

Used for:

Ringworm
Jock itch
Athlete's foot
Tinea versicolor (a fungal infection that causes discolored patches on the skin)
Seborrheic dermatitis
Yeast infection on the skin (caused by Candida)

$13.48Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Terbinafine (Lamisil AT)

Used for:

$7.38Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

News about Nystatin topical

4 Nystatin Side Effects You Should Know About

Read on to learn the side effects of nystatin, including common, rare, and long-term side effects, and how to manage them.

Oral Thrush Medications: What To Know About Your Treatment Options

Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and there are some medications you can take to help treat it. Learn more about oral thrush medications with GoodRx.

Fluconazole, Terbinafine, and More: 8 Oral Antifungal Medications and How They Differ

Oral antifungal medications, such as Lamisil and Diflucan, help treat or prevent certain fungal infections. Learn about eight different prescription options and how they differ.

Magic Mouthwash: What You Need to Know

Discover what Magic Mouthwash is and how it might benefit oral health with information from GoodRx.

Nystatin vs. Clotrimazole: 5 Differences Between These Topical Antifungals

Nystatin and clotrimazole are antifungal medications. Though similar, they are used to treat specific types of infections and have unique applications.

Why Is Oral Thrush So Common in Babies?

Oral thrush in babies is caused by the overgrowth of a yeast/fungus. It can make it hard for a baby to eat. The condition is common in young babies but can be treated. Read more on how to recognize and treat oral thrush in babies.

Nystatin topical images

This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.

This medicine is Yellow Tube Of Cream.yellow - Nystatin 100,000unit/g Topical Cream

This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Nystatin 100,000unit/g Topical Cream

References

Muddasani, S., et al. (2023). The Persistence of Nystatin Use for Dermatophyte Infections. The Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Northstar Rx LLC. (2025). NYSTATIN powder. DailyMed.

Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (2025). NYSTATIN ointment. DailyMed.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

nystatin topical