Bactroban 2% Ointment 22gm
It is used to treat skin infections.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Topical Antibacterial
Pharmacologic Class
Antibiotic (Isoleucyl-tRNA Synthetase Inhibitor)
Pregnancy Category
Category B
FDA Approved
Dec 1987
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Mupirocin is an antibiotic ointment used on the skin to treat certain bacterial skin infections like impetigo. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, eyes, or other sensitive areas, as it may cause burning. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In this case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean and dry the affected area before applying the medication.
Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply a small amount of the medication to the affected skin.
If recommended by your doctor, you may cover the treated area with a dressing.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding refrigeration or freezing.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If the missed dose is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule.
Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, eyes, or other sensitive areas, as it may cause burning. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In this case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean and dry the affected area before applying the medication.
Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply a small amount of the medication to the affected skin.
If recommended by your doctor, you may cover the treated area with a dressing.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding refrigeration or freezing.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If the missed dose is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule.
Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Clean the affected area before applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin layer of ointment to cover the entire affected area.
- You may cover the treated area with gauze if directed by your doctor.
- Avoid getting the ointment in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use this ointment for longer than prescribed, even if the infection seems to be gone, to prevent recurrence and antibiotic resistance.
- Do not use on large areas of skin or on deep wounds without consulting a doctor.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily
Condition-Specific Dosing:
impetigo:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily for 3 to 5 days.
secondarySkinInfections:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily for 3 to 10 days.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with caution, consult specialist)
Infant:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily for 3 to 5 days (for impetigo, âĨ2 months of age).
Child:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily for 3 to 5 days (for impetigo).
Adolescent:
Apply a small amount to the affected area three times daily for 3 to 5 days (for impetigo).
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Mupirocin is an antibacterial agent that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly and specifically binding to bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase. This prevents the incorporation of isoleucine into bacterial proteins, leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption (<0.2%) through intact skin; increased absorption through abraded skin or open wounds.
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical systemic absorption; local concentration achieved rapidly.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (topical administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic distribution)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic distribution)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
20-40 minutes (systemic, for absorbed drug)
Clearance:
Rapid (systemic)
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (as monic acid)
Unchanged:
<0.2% (systemic)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Clinical improvement typically seen within 3-5 days.
PeakEffect:
Not applicable (topical)
DurationOfAction:
Not applicable (topical)
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe irritation at the site where the medication was applied
Dizziness
Fast or abnormal heartbeat
A severe form of diarrhea called C diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can be life-threatening. This may occur during or after treatment with the antibiotic. If you experience:
+ Stomach pain or cramps
+ Very loose or watery stools
+ Bloody stools
seek medical help right away. Do not attempt to treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Burning or stinging
Short-term pain after use
Itching
Headache
Upset stomach
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe irritation at the site where the medication was applied
Dizziness
Fast or abnormal heartbeat
A severe form of diarrhea called C diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD), which can be life-threatening. This may occur during or after treatment with the antibiotic. If you experience:
+ Stomach pain or cramps
+ Very loose or watery stools
+ Bloody stools
seek medical help right away. Do not attempt to treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Burning or stinging
Short-term pain after use
Itching
Headache
Upset stomach
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe burning, stinging, or itching at the application site
- New or worsening rash
- Signs of a new infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, pus)
- Signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., severe rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If a large area of your skin needs to be treated with this medication.
If your skin is damaged or has open wounds, as this medication should not be applied to damaged skin or open wounds.
This medication may interact with other medications or health conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
Your existing health problems
Before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one, consult with your doctor to ensure your safety. It is your responsibility to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If a large area of your skin needs to be treated with this medication.
If your skin is damaged or has open wounds, as this medication should not be applied to damaged skin or open wounds.
This medication may interact with other medications or health conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
Your existing health problems
Before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one, consult with your doctor to ensure your safety. It is your responsibility to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. To minimize the risk of a second infection, do not use this drug for a longer period than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use. Additionally, avoid applying this drug near areas where intravenous medications are administered, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication to you and your baby. If you are breastfeeding and apply this drug to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before nursing your child.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use. Additionally, avoid applying this drug near areas where intravenous medications are administered, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication to you and your baby. If you are breastfeeding and apply this drug to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before nursing your child.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Unlikely with topical application due to minimal systemic absorption. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal upset.
What to Do:
For accidental ingestion, contact a poison control center (Call 1-800-222-1222) or seek medical attention. For topical overdose, wipe off excess and monitor for local irritation.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Routine Monitoring
Clinical response (resolution of infection signs/symptoms)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Improvement within 3-5 days
Action Threshold: If no improvement or worsening after 3-5 days, re-evaluate diagnosis and treatment.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., burning, stinging, itching, rash)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Absence or mild, transient reactions
Action Threshold: Discontinue if severe irritation, sensitization, or systemic allergic reaction occurs.
Symptom Monitoring
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pus/drainage
- Pain
- Itching
- Burning
- Rash
- Lack of healing
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Mupirocin is considered Category B. Animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk based on animal data; human data limited.
Second Trimester:
Low risk based on animal data; human data limited.
Third Trimester:
Low risk based on animal data; human data limited.
Lactation
Mupirocin is considered L3 (moderately safe). Minimal systemic absorption is expected, making infant exposure low. Apply to areas not accessible to the infant, and avoid application to the breast/nipple area.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects due to minimal systemic absorption and rapid metabolism if ingested.
Pediatric Use
Safe and effective for impetigo in pediatric patients 2 months of age and older. Safety and efficacy in neonates (<2 months) have not been established. Use with caution in infants due to potentially larger surface area to body weight ratio and immature skin barrier, which could lead to increased systemic absorption.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are necessary. Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. However, no differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Mupirocin ointment is for external use only. Do not use in the eyes, nose (unless specifically for nasal formulation), or mouth.
- Avoid using mupirocin ointment on large open wounds or burns, as polyethylene glycol (a component of the ointment base) can be absorbed and may cause renal toxicity in patients with impaired renal function.
- Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if irritation, sensitization, or severe local reactions occur.
- Prolonged use may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.
- Ensure patients understand the importance of completing the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance and recurrence.
Alternative Therapies
- Retapamulin topical (Altabax)
- Fusidic acid topical (not widely available in US)
- Topical antibiotics like bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B (e.g., Neosporin) for minor skin infections (note: different spectrum and resistance patterns)
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin, dicloxacillin) for more severe or widespread skin infections.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $60 per 22gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.