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Nystatin oral suspension

Advancing Clinical Therapeutics Globally for HIV/AIDS and Other Infections · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Nystatin binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, creating pores that cause leakage and cell death.

Nystatin binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, creating pores that cause leakage and cell death. Used for Oral candidiasis (thrush), Esophageal candidiasis, Intestinal candidiasis.

At a glance

Generic nameNystatin oral suspension
Also known asNystatin Swish and Swallow, Mycostatin
SponsorAdvancing Clinical Therapeutics Globally for HIV/AIDS and Other Infections
Drug classPolyene macrolide antifungal
TargetErgosterol
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Nystatin is a polyene macrolide antibiotic that selectively targets ergosterol, a sterol unique to fungal cell membranes. By binding to ergosterol, it disrupts membrane integrity and increases permeability, leading to loss of cellular contents and fungal cell death. It is not absorbed systemically when given orally, making it ideal for topical treatment of oral and gastrointestinal candidiasis.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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