Nystatin

Definition

Nystatin is an antifungal antibiotic used to treat fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida species. It works by binding to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane, creating pores that lead to cell death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nystatin is primarily effective against Candida species and used in the treatment of oral thrush, skin infections, and vaginal yeast infections.
2. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream when taken orally; thus, it acts locally on the mucous membranes.
3. Nystatin was one of the first antifungal antibiotics discovered and was isolated from Streptomyces noursei.
4. The drug can be administered in various forms including creams, ointments, powders, tablets, and liquid suspensions.
5. Nystatin disrupts fungal cell membrane integrity by binding to ergosterol, which is a key component of fungal cell membranes.

Related terms

Ergosterol:

A sterol component of fungal cell membranes that nystatin binds to.

Candida:

A genus of yeasts that can cause infections in humans; often targeted by nystatin.

Streptomyces noursei: The bacterium from which nystatin was originally isolated.