chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin at a glance
Medicine class
Topical antifungal and antiseptic combination
Licensed role
Treatment of infected skin conditions involving fungi and/or bacteria
How it is used
Applied externally to affected skin; avoid the eyes and mouth
What is chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin used for?
The licence covers infected skin conditions where fungal, particularly Candida, and/or bacterial infection is present.
Examples include ringworm, athlete’s foot and infected nappy rash.
It is a skin preparation and is not intended for infections inside the mouth or vagina.
How does chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin work?
Nystatin disrupts fungal cell membranes, helping control susceptible yeasts such as Candida. Chlorhexidine has complementary activity against a broad range of bacteria. Topically applied nystatin is not absorbed through intact skin or mucous membranes.
How to take chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin
Use only on the skin and follow the prescriber’s and pack instructions.
Do not put the cream in the eyes or mouth.
Wash your hands after application unless the hands are being treated.
If it enters an eye, rinse immediately and seek medical advice. If swallowed, seek medical advice.
chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin side effects
Common or expected effects
- Possible local effects include itching, redness, dryness, inflammation, irritation or contact dermatitis.
Get urgent medical advice
- A widespread rash or other signs of hypersensitivity require prompt medical assessment.
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty, severe dizziness or collapse may indicate anaphylaxis and require emergency help.
chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin in pregnancy
Ask the prescriber or pharmacist before use during pregnancy, particularly in the early months. The product information advises using nystatin in early pregnancy only after weighing anticipated benefit against possible risk.
chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin while breastfeeding
Topical nystatin and chlorhexidine are generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Prevent the baby touching treated skin; if used on the breast or nipple, wash it off and wash your hands before feeding. Confirm product-specific use with a prescriber or pharmacist.
chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin interactions
No specific medicine interactions are stated in the selected product information. Tell the prescriber or pharmacist about other medicines, skin preparations, herbal products and supplements.
Common questions about chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin a steroid cream?
No. The selected cream contains an antifungal and an antiseptic, but no corticosteroid. Similarly named “HC” products contain hydrocortisone and are different products.
What skin infections does chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin treat?
It is licensed for infected skin conditions involving fungi, particularly Candida, and/or bacteria.
Can chlorhexidine hydrochloride + nystatin treat athlete’s foot or ringworm?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.