nystatin

Nystatin is an antifungal drug belonging to the polyene group, which also includes amphotericin B. These drugs work by interacting with ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membranes, creating channels that lead to the loss of essential cellular materials.1

Nystatin is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is therefore used orally or topically to treat infections caused by Candida albicans, a common fungus that can cause conditions like thrush and vaginitis. Due to its toxicity, nystatin is not administered systemically. Other antifungal drugs like azoles and allyamines target fungal infections through different mechanisms, such as inhibiting lipid synthesis or affecting cell division.213