From the FDA Drug Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 0574-2008-15 Rx Only NYSTOP® Nystatin Topical Powder, USP 100,000 USP Units Per Gram USUAL DOSAGE: Apply to affected area 2 or 3 times daily.
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Nystatin cream for lip dermatitis is typically prescribed as a 100,000 units/gram formulation, applied to the affected areas 2-4 times daily for 7-14 days, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Considerations
- The treatment duration should continue for at least 48 hours after symptoms have resolved to prevent recurrence.
- When applying, use a clean finger or cotton swab to spread a thin layer over the affected lip area, avoiding contact with eyes.
- Nystatin works by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, creating pores that lead to cell death, and is particularly effective against Candida species, which often cause fungal lip dermatitis.
Important Notes
- If symptoms persist beyond two weeks of treatment, worsen, or recur frequently, medical reassessment is recommended as this may indicate either resistance to nystatin, incorrect diagnosis, or an underlying condition requiring different management.
- Nystatin cream is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, though some patients may experience mild irritation, burning, or itching upon application, as noted in various studies including 1 and 2.
Additional Guidance
- The choice of antifungal agent may depend on the specific causative organism and the patient's medical history, as discussed in 3 and 2.
- Topical antifungals, such as nystatin, are often preferred for the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis, as they have been shown to be effective and well-tolerated, as reported in 1.