Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Nystatin? Is Nystatin safe for nursing mother and child? Does Nystatin extracts into breast milk? Does Nystatin has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Nystatin influence milk supply or can Nystatin decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Nystatin lactation summary

Nystatin is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Nystatin is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Nystatin is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Nystatin does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Nystatin safe in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Nystatin usage in lactation

At latest update, relevant published data on excretion into breast milk were not found. Absorption through the skin and mucosa is nil, in addition it is known to be almost nil via gastrointestinal tract. Hence, it is unlikely its appearance in the mother's plasma or the milk. Authorized medication for use in small infants and newborns. It is recommended to avoid putting creams, gels and other products for local use that could contain paraffin (mineral oil) on the nipple, in order to keep from absorbing it by the child. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (2002): compatible with breastfeeding.

Answer by DrLact: About Nystatin usage in lactation

Although no information exists on the milk excretion of nystatin, it is virtually unabsorbed orally, therefore most reviewers and clinicians consider it acceptable for use in nursing mothers, including topical application to the nipples.[1][2][3] Only water-miscible cream or gel products should be applied to the breast because ointments may expose the infant to high levels of mineral paraffins via licking.[4] Any excess cream should be removed from the nipples before nursing. Nystatin is less effective than other topical agents for the treatment of thrush.[5][6]
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.