This article is not medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or use the medication guide.

Mupirocin Information

What is Mupirocin?

Mupirocin is a generic antibiotic used to treat skin infections. Mupirocin ointment is applied topically (on the skin) to treat impetigo. This is a skin disease caused by a range of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and beta-hemolytic streptococcus. This drug may also be used to combat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the nose. There may be other Mupirocin ointment uses not mentioned here.

What makes Mupirocin 2 different from other antibiotics is that as opposed to attacking the walls or the DNA of the bacteria, it inhibits protein synthesis in the bacteria cells. Without protein, the cells are unable to carry out their functional roles, so the bacteria stop multiplying and die. This unique mechanism of action is what makes Mupirocin ointment usp 2 an important drug in WHO’s list of essential medicines.

Mupirocin otc is not available, so you’ll need a prescription to get this drug. The reason for this is to prevent resistance in Staphylococcus aureus.

Mupirocin brand names

Mupirocin 2 ointment is a generic drug, but you can also get it in the following brand names;

• Bactroban
• Centany
• Centany AT Kit

Mupirocin Forms and Strengths

Mupirocin is available in ointment (foam). Each gram of Mupirocin 2 ointment comprises of 20 mg of Mupirocin in a polyethylene glycol ointment, N.F base with polyethylene glycol 3350 and polyethylene glycol 400. This drug is supplied in tubes with the following dosages;

• 15 gm
• 22 gm
• 30 gm

Proper use of Mupirocin cream

Taking Mupirocin otc is not recommended as it can increase the risk of the bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics in future. This drug should be used with a doctor’s prescription only.

Use Mupirocin ointment usp only as directed by the medical practitioner and as indicated in the Patient Information Leaflet. If you have any questions regarding Mupirocin cream uses or risks, it’s important to ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarifications.

Mupirocin (Bactroban generic) cream is applied on the skin (topically) and should never be administered orally. It may be harmful if swallowed. If this medicine gets in your mouth, eyes, or nose, you should rinse thoroughly with water.

To apply this ointment, always wash the affected area of skin first. Rinse all traces of soap and water and pat the skin dry. Next, apply a thin film of Mupirocin 2 cream evenly around the affected part and gently massage it until it has all ‘disappeared.’ Lastly, cover the treated part using a breathable cover, such as a sterile gauze pad. Do not use covers that don’t allow excellent air circulation.

Mupirocin for staph should be applied regularly (usually thrice a day) for effectiveness. It’s critical to carry on the dosage to full term (usually 10 days) even if the symptoms disappear after a few uses. This ensures that the entire colony of bacteria is eradicated lowering the risk of reinfection. Also, always apply Mupirocin cream around the same time every day without skipping doses to prevent reinfections and the bacteria becoming resistant to the medication.

Mupirocin ointment 2 percent works in 3-5 days. Consult your doctor if you haven’t seen any improvement within this period.

Mupirocin dosage for impetigo

For adults and children above 2 months

Mupirocin should be used topically only. You should not swallow or put in the nose, eyes, or vagina. Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply a thin layer of Mupirocin ointment over the affected part of the skin 3 times daily for 10 days. You may use a gauze dressing to cover the treated area. Do not use Mupirocin with other ointments, creams, or lotions. Consult your doctor for a check up if there’s no visible improvement within 3-5 days.

Mupirocin dose for secondary skin infection

For adults and children above 3 months

Apply Mupirocin cream on the affected part every 8 hours for 10 days. Reevaluate if there’s no response in 3-5 days.

Mupirocin doses for MRSA colonization

For adults and children above 12 year

Apply half the content of Mupirocin calcium cream single-use tube into one nostril and the other half on the other nostril. Squeeze the sides of the nostrils gently and massage the cream throughout. Use Mupirocin in nose every 12 hours.

Mupirocin ointment for babies

Do not apply Mupirocin cream or ointment on babies without advice from your doctor or pediatrician. Mupirocin (Bactroban generic) cream should only be used for babies 3 months old and above. The ointment is safe for babies 2 months old and above.

Mupirocin for dogs

Mupirocin is FDA-approved in the treatment of skin bacterial infections in canines. These include pyoderma, which is caused by Staphylococcus intermedius and Staphylococcus aureus. The usual dosage of Mupirocin ointment for dogs is applying a layer of this cream on the affected region 2 times daily. Do not get this medication in the dog’s eyes, mouth, or nose.

Mupirocin missed dose

Mupirocin is typically applied 3 times in a day in humans and 2 days daily in dogs. If you miss your Mupirocin ointment dosage, you may apply it as soon as you remember if it’s not almost time for your next dosage of the day. Otherwise, skip it and continue with your dosing schedule.

Mupirocin uses

What is Mupirocin used for?

Mupirocin is an antibiotic used for the following purposes;

• To treat bacterial skin infections, such as impetigo caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
• Applied in the nostrils to eradicate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• Used prophylactically to protect minor cuts and burns from bacterial infection
• Used to treat mild cases of hair follicle inflammation (folliculitis)

Before using Mupirocin (Bactroban generic)

Here are some critical considerations to make before using Mupirocin;

Allergies

It’s rare for Mupirocin to cause an allergic reaction. However, this medication contains polyethylene glycol, which may cause allergies or other problems in some people. You should not use this drug if you’ve ever had an allergic response to Mupirocin ingredients. Also, tell your doctor if you’re allergic to other antibiotic medications.

Pregnancy- can I use Mupirocin while pregnant?

Mupirocin is in FDA pregnancy category B. This means that animal reproductive studies didn’t show any risk to the fetus when applied topically, and there are no well-controlled studies in human beings. However, since not much is known about the effects of Mupirocin on developing baby, it should be used judiciously and only when the benefits outweigh the risk.

Mupirocin during breastfeeding

It’s not clear whether Mupirocin has any significant effect on milk production or the breastfeeding baby. However, because only minimal amounts of this medication is absorbed into the skin (less than 1%), its use is considered generally safe for the nursing infant. It’s important to ensure that the infant’s skin does not come into contact with the treated part of the skin, though.

Mupirocin use in Pediatrics

The safety and efficacy of Mupirocin ointment have been established in children as young as 2 months. Mupirocin cream should be used for children 3 months and above.

Mupirocin warnings

1. Eye irritation- this medication may cause eye irritation. Rinse with plenty of water if it comes into contact with your eyes.

2. Allergies- although not so common, Mupirocin may cause a range of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, angioedema, and urticaria. Don’t use this cream/ointment if you have a history of allergic reactions to it.

3. Increased risk of microbial growth-similar to other antibacterial medications, prolonged usage of Mupirocin increases the risk of other microorganisms, including fungi.

4. Risk of antimicrobial resistance- Mupirocin should not be used intravenously, through ingestion, or through the nose or vagina. Use specially formulated Mupirocin ointment for MRSA.

5. Polyethylene glycol absorption risk- Mupirocin cream should not be applied over large areas or damaged skin. This increases the absorption of polyethylene glycol, which can cause or aggravate medical conditions, such as kidney disease, heart disease, nausea or vomiting, and seizures.

Mupirocin side effects

Common but mild side effects

Contact your health care provider if any of these mild effects get severe.

• Stinging
• Burning
• Itching
• Eye irritation- avoid getting Mupirocin in the eyes and rinse with water in case this happens.

Severe (but rare) Mupirocin ointment side effects

Stop the medication and seek emergency medical care by calling 911 in case of any of the following;

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Hive
• Dizziness
• Increased heart rate
• Skin rash all over the body

Long-term Mupirocin side effects

• Kidney and heart problems- using Mupirocin for prolonged periods increases the risk of absorbing high amounts of polyethylene glycol. This could cause kidney and heart problems in the long run. Avoid this drug if you have existing renal issues.

Proper storage

After opening the Mupirocin cream tube, store it at below 25 C. Keep the medication in its original package away from moisture and direct heat. Keep the medicine away from children’s reach.

Mupirocin cost

Mupirocin is inexpensive, although the price varies between different pharmacies and stores. Without a Mupirocin coupon, the amount of 1 tube of Mupirocin 2% 22g ranges from $16 at Costco to $80 at Rite Aid. With a coupon, the best price for Mupirocin is in the range of $8 and $24.50. Mupirocin ointment CVS is around $18.99 with a free coupon.

Mechanism of action

Generic Mupirocin is in a class of medications called Carboxylic acid. This drug has a unique chemical structure and also works differently from other antibacterial medicines. Mupirocin works by reversibly binding and inhibiting isoleucyl-transfer RNA (tRNA) synthetase. This is a vital enzyme in the cell’s ability to convert isoleucine and rRNA to isoleucyl-rRNA. With the formation of isoleucyl-rRNA stopped, the cell is unable to synthesize protein leading to its death.

Mupirocin for rash

Mupirocin topical ointment is commonly used to treat impetigo- a painful rash caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Mupirocin for impetigo is considered to be more effective than most oral antibiotics.

Mupirocin for burns

Mupirocin bactroban may be used prophylactically when protecting a minor burn from a bacterial infection besides speeding up the healing process. At times, Mupirocina cream is prescribed for deep burns, especially when there is great concern about the development of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other antibiotic-resistant bacteria. When treating large parts of broken skin, always use Mupirocin cream usp 2 judiciously and as directed by your doctor.

Mupirocin for acne

The use of Mupirocin ointment for acne has not been studied a lot. For that reason, most doctors recommend using other medications that are dermatologically proven for that purpose. Notably, a few studies that have been carried out around this issue show that Mupirocin may be useful in treating mild and moderate acne. Enquire from your doctor before using it for this purpose, though.

Mupirocin for cuts

Can I use Mupirocin ointment on an open wound? Medical practitioners are all over the place regarding the use of Mupirocin on cuts. On the one hand, most of them agree that this medication may be used to prevent the development of bacterial infection on small cuts. On the other hand, some doctors say that Mupirocin may never be used on skin parts with open cuts and wounds. That said, we advise talking to your doctor first to assess the potential risks and benefits of using Mupirocin for cuts.

Mupirocin for folliculitis

Mupirocin 2 ointment 22gm may be used to treat mild cases of inflammation of hair follicles. However, severe infections, including larger furuncles and carbuncles, may require incision (cutting) and drainage of the pus.

**Mupirocin ointment for boils **

Boils are commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, which is the main bacteria that Mupirocin eliminates best. It’s important to put a band-aid on the treated boil to prevent the bacteria from spreading.

Mupirocin for herpes

Mupirocin is an antibiotic. It may not be effective for treating herpes, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Zovirax, Valtrex, and Famvir are among the best medications for treating genital herpes.

Mupirocin for MRSA

Mupirocin ointment in nose is highly effective in killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is a gram-positive bacteria that causes several hard-to-treat infections. This bacteria is contagious through breathing and sneezing. When using Mupirocin nasal ointment for MRSA, squeeze a small amount of this drug on your little finger’s tip and gently rub it onto the front part of each nostril. Next, press your nostrils together gently to spread the cream around the nose.

Mupirocin for yeast infection

Mupirocin ointment 2 uses don’t include infections and conditions caused by fungus and bacteria. Yeast is a fungal infection and, therefore, may not be treated using Mupirocin. In addition, remember it’s not recommendable to put Mupirocin in your vagina or mouth. It’s also worth noting that using Mupirocin over the counter for long actually puts you at the risk of developing thrush (a yeast infection). Consult your doctor first if you’re planning to use Mupirocin ointment for yeast infection.

Mupirocin for ringworm

In a study of the antifungal activity of Mupirocin ointment for ringworm, the researchers found that high doses of Mupirocin ointment otc inhibited the growth and spread of Trichophyton mentagrophytes, one of the types of fungi that cause ringworm in guinea pigs and rabbits. However, studies of its efficacy in human beings are scanty. Accordingly, the use of Mupirocin for ringworm should be avoided unless under instructions from a doctor.

Mupirocin for cold sores

In Mupirocin reviews online, some people say that they have used this ointment off-label to treat cold sores successfully. However, it’s important to point out that Mupirocina is an antibacterial medication, whereas cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). So, it may not work. If anything, it puts you at the risk of developing thrush, a yeast infection characterized by white patches around the mouth and throat.

Mupirocin for eczema

Mupirocin should only be used topically to treat bacterial infections on the skin. Therefore, it should not be used on eczema unless the wound is bacterially infected, which needs to be diagnosed by your doctor.

Mupirocin vs Bacitracin

Mupirocin (Bactroban generic) and Bacitracin are used to eradicate colonies of Staphylococcus aureus in the nose. In one study comparing the efficacy of these 2 drugs, Mupirocin was found to kill the bacteria by up to 94% while Bacitracin managed to kill 44% in 72-96 hours. Similar results were obtained in a 30-day trial. That said, Mupirocin may be significantly effective than Bacitracin in treating infections caused by Staph aureus.

Mupirocin vs Neosporin

Neosporin is an antibacterial medication supplied in ointment, cream, foam, and spray foams. Mupirocin is used to treat bacterial skin infections. Using Mupirocin topical in nose also helps eradicate MRSA. On the other hand, Neosporin is mainly used to prevent bacterial infections in scrapes, burns, and wounds. Another difference between these drugs is that Neosporin is available over the counter while Mupirocin is available for prescription only.