Bactroban

Generic name: Mupirocin

What is Bactroban?

Bactroban Cream and Ointment are used to treat bacterial infections that affect the skin. Bactroban Nasal Ointment is used to treat bacterial infections that affect the nostrils and may cause serious infections.

What is the most important information I should know about Bactroban?

If your skin infection does not improve within 3 to 5 days of using Bactroban, or it becomes worse, notify your doctor. Prolonged use of Bactroban, as with other antibacterial products, may result in overgrowth of other microorganisms.

Who should not take Bactroban?

Do not use Bactroban if you are sensitive to or allergic to any of the components of the product.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Bactroban?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Bactroban, especially if you are using any other prescription or nonprescription medicine that is applied to the same area of skin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Impetigo

Adults and children ≥2 months: Apply Bactroban Ointment three times a day to the affected area.

Children <2 months: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Secondarily Infected Traumatic Skin Lesions

Adults and children ≥3 months: Apply Bactroban Cream three times a day, for 10 days.

Children <3 months: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For Eradication of Nasal Colonization with Bacterial (Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus) in Adults and Health Care Workers

Adults and Adolescents ≥12 years: Approximately half the Bactroban Nasal Ointment from the single-use tube (about 0.25 grams) per nostril twice daily for 5 days.

Children <12 years: Safety in children under the age of 12 has not been established.

How should I take Bactroban?

Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

Before applying Bactroban, wash the affected area with soap and water. Dry thoroughly. Apply a small amount of cream or ointment. Cover the area with gauze dressing, if desired.

When using Bactroban nasal ointment, apply approximately half the ointment from the single-use tube directly into 1 nostril and the other half into the other nostril. Throw away the tube after using it. Press the sides of your nose together and gently massage after application to spread the ointment throughout the inside of the nostrils. Do not use Bactroban with other nasal products.

What should I avoid while taking Bactroban?

Avoid contact with the eyes.

Bactroban ointment should not be used in combination with other products that contain polyethylene glycol.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Bactroban?

If Bactroban is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Check with your doctor before combining Bactroban with any drug.

What are the possible side effects of Bactroban?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects of Bactroban Cream may include: headache, rash, nausea

Side effects of Bactroban Ointment may include: burning, pain, stinging

Side effects of Bactroban Nasal Ointment may include: headache; runny nose; breathing problems, including congestion, sore throat, and taste changes

Can I receive Bactroban if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Bactroban during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Bactroban?

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

How should I store Bactroban?

Store Bactroban at room temperature and away from heat and light. Keep the medicine from freezing.