International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which of the following treatments is least effective against thrush?

1. Fluconazole

2. Miconazole

3. Nystatin

4. Gentian Violet

The correct answer is: Nystatin

Nystatin is commonly used to treat thrush, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida species. While Nystatin effectively handles superficial Candida infections of the oral cavity, it may not be as effective compared to the other available treatment options. Fluconazole is an oral antifungal that works systemically and is often more effective for cases of thrush, including those that are severe or resistant to topical treatments. Miconazole is another antifungal agent that can also treat thrush and tends to be effective for oral infections. Gentian violet is an antiseptic dye that has antifungal properties and is traditionally used for thrush; it can be quite effective in treating oral fungal infections as well. In contrast, Nystatin's effectiveness is limited in certain scenarios, particularly in more resistant cases of thrush or when treatment requires a systemic approach. Therefore, while Nystatin can still be beneficial in some instances, it is often viewed as the least effective option among those listed for treating thrush, especially in more challenging or persistent cases.