Nystatin Cream Dosage for Fungal Skin Infections
Apply nystatin topical cream or powder to the affected area 2-3 times daily until the infection clears, typically continuing for 7-14 days. 1
Standard Dosing Regimen
The FDA-approved dosing for nystatin topical powder (100,000 units per gram) is application to the affected area 2 or 3 times daily. 1
For cutaneous candidiasis (skin fold infections, diaper rash, intertrigo), topical nystatin is effective when applied 2-3 times daily, with treatment duration typically 7-14 days until clinical resolution. 2
The key to successful treatment is keeping the infected area dry in addition to applying the antifungal agent, particularly important for intertrigo in skin folds. 2
Clinical Context and Effectiveness
Topical azoles (clotrimazole, miconazole) and polyenes (nystatin) are all effective options for primary candidal skin infections, with no single agent demonstrably superior for uncomplicated cutaneous disease. 2
For diaper candidiasis, nystatin cream applied 3-4 times daily or with each diaper change successfully eradicates Candida within 2-8 days (mean 2.8 days). 3
In severe burn patients with angioinvasive fungal infections, high-concentration nystatin powder (6,000 units/g) applied topically has shown efficacy, though this represents specialized use beyond typical cutaneous infections. 4
Important Caveats
Nystatin is ineffective for onychomycosis (nail infections) and should not be used for this indication—oral agents like itraconazole are required instead. 2
For paronychia (nail fold infections), drainage is the most important intervention, with topical antifungals playing a secondary role. 2
If clinical improvement is not evident within 48-72 hours of initiating therapy, consider alternative diagnoses, resistant organisms, or the need for systemic therapy. 5, 6
Nystatin has no role in treating systemic or invasive candidiasis—these require systemic antifungal therapy. 2, 5