A Complete Guide to Nystatin/Triamcinolone

If your doctor just prescribed Nystatin/Triamcinolone, you probably have questions. What is this medication? What does it treat? How do you use it? This guide covers everything you need to know — from the basics to the fine print — so you can use this medication safely and effectively.

What Is Nystatin/Triamcinolone?

Nystatin/Triamcinolone is a prescription topical medication that combines two active ingredients:

• Nystatin (100,000 units per gram) — an antifungal medication that kills Candida yeast on the skin
• Triamcinolone Acetonide (0.1%) — a medium-potency corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling

By combining an antifungal with a steroid, this medication treats both the underlying infection and the uncomfortable symptoms at the same time. You may recognize older brand names like Mycolog-II or Mytrex, though today it's available exclusively as a generic product made by manufacturers like Taro Pharmaceuticals, Perrigo, and Glenmark.

It's classified as a combination antifungal and corticosteroid, and it is not a controlled substance.

What Does Nystatin/Triamcinolone Treat?

FDA-Approved Use

Nystatin/Triamcinolone is FDA-approved for the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis — yeast infections on the skin — specifically when there is a significant inflammatory component (redness, swelling, itching). The Nystatin targets the Candida fungus while the Triamcinolone calms the inflammation.

Common Off-Label Uses

Doctors also prescribe Nystatin/Triamcinolone for several related conditions:

• Diaper rash with a yeast component — When a baby's diaper rash is complicated by Candida overgrowth, pediatricians may prescribe this combination for short-term use
• Intertriginous candidiasis — Yeast infections in skin folds (under breasts, in the groin, between abdominal folds) where moisture and friction create ideal conditions for fungal growth
• Angular cheilitis — Cracked, inflamed corners of the mouth caused by a combination of yeast and inflammation
• Perianal candidiasis — Yeast infections around the anal area

For a detailed look at how this medication works at the cellular level, read our guide on how Nystatin/Triamcinolone works.

Available Forms and Strengths

Nystatin/Triamcinolone is available in two formulations:

• Cream — Lighter, easier to spread, absorbs more quickly. Best for moist or weeping areas.
• Ointment — Thicker, more occlusive, provides a moisture barrier. Better for dry or scaly skin.

Both contain the same concentration: 100,000 units of Nystatin and 0.1% Triamcinolone Acetonide per gram. They come in 15g, 30g, and 60g tubes.

Your doctor will choose the form based on the location and characteristics of your infection. If you're not sure which one is right for you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use Nystatin/Triamcinolone

Proper application is important for both effectiveness and safety. Follow these steps:

1. Clean the area — Gently wash the affected skin with mild soap and water, then pat it completely dry
2. Apply a thin layer — Squeeze a small amount onto your fingertip and apply a thin film to the affected area only. Don't slather it on — a thin layer is all you need.
3. Rub it in gently — Lightly massage the medication into the skin until it's absorbed
4. Wash your hands — After application, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading the medication to your eyes or other sensitive areas
5. Apply twice daily — Use the medication in the morning and evening, approximately 12 hours apart

Important Application Rules

• Do not cover with occlusive dressings (bandages, plastic wrap, tight clothing) unless your doctor specifically instructs you to. Occlusion increases absorption and raises the risk of side effects.
• Do not apply to the face, groin, or armpits for extended periods unless directed by your doctor. These areas have thinner skin and are more susceptible to steroid side effects.
• Do not use on open wounds or severely broken skin without medical guidance.

Dosage and Treatment Duration

The standard dosage is straightforward:

• Adults and children: Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily (morning and evening)
• Treatment duration: Typically 2 weeks. Do not use for more than 25 days without medical supervision.

If your symptoms haven't improved after 2 weeks, contact your doctor. Continuing to use the medication beyond the recommended duration increases the risk of side effects like skin thinning. Learn more about potential reactions in our side effects guide.

Who Should Not Use Nystatin/Triamcinolone

This medication is not appropriate for everyone. Do not use Nystatin/Triamcinolone if you have:

• An allergy to Nystatin, Triamcinolone, or any inactive ingredient in the formulation
• A viral skin infection (herpes simplex, chickenpox, shingles)
• A bacterial skin infection without concurrent antibiotic treatment
• Tuberculosis of the skin

The steroid component can worsen viral and bacterial infections by suppressing the local immune response. If you're not sure whether your skin condition is caused by yeast, see your doctor for a proper diagnosis before starting treatment.

Special Populations

Children

Nystatin/Triamcinolone can be used in children, but with extra caution. Children have a higher body surface area relative to their weight, which means they absorb proportionally more medication through the skin. Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest duration. Do not use under diapers or plastic pants, as these act as occlusive dressings.

Pregnancy

This medication is classified as Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies have shown potential risks, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Discuss with your OB/GYN.

Breastfeeding

It's not known whether Nystatin/Triamcinolone passes into breast milk when applied topically. Use with caution and avoid applying to areas that may come into contact with a nursing infant's mouth.

Elderly

Older adults have thinner, more fragile skin that absorbs topical medications more readily. Doctors typically recommend shorter treatment courses and careful monitoring for elderly patients.

Drug Interactions

As a topical medication, Nystatin/Triamcinolone has relatively few drug interactions. However, you should be aware of the following:

• Other topical corticosteroids — Using multiple steroid products increases the risk of skin thinning and systemic absorption
• Occlusive dressings — These increase systemic absorption of Triamcinolone
• Aldesleukin — Corticosteroids may reduce its effectiveness

For a complete breakdown, see our drug interactions guide.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The good news: Nystatin/Triamcinolone is an affordable generic medication.

• Cash price: $15–$45 for a 30g tube; $25–$80 for a 60g tube
• With discount cards: As low as $10–$25 for a 30g tube (GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver)
• Insurance: Generally covered as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 generic. Prior authorization is usually not required.

For detailed savings strategies, read our guide on how to save money on Nystatin/Triamcinolone.

Where to Find Nystatin/Triamcinolone

Most pharmacies carry this medication, but occasional stock-outs do happen. If your pharmacy doesn't have it, use Medfinder to check availability at other pharmacies near you. You can also read our step-by-step guide on how to check pharmacy stock and our post on how to find Nystatin/Triamcinolone in stock near you.

If you don't yet have a prescription, our guide on finding a doctor who prescribes Nystatin/Triamcinolone can help you get started.

Final Thoughts

Nystatin/Triamcinolone is a well-established, effective treatment for fungal skin infections with inflammation. It's affordable, widely available, and straightforward to use. The most important things to remember: apply a thin layer twice daily, don't exceed the 2-week treatment window without medical guidance, and avoid using it under occlusive dressings or on sensitive facial skin.

If you have questions about whether this medication is right for you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. And if you're dealing with availability issues, Medfinder is here to help you find it in stock.