#bactroban

Brand Name: Bactroban

Generic Available

Common Dosage Forms:

Ointment: 2% (20 mg per gram) in a polyethylene glycol base

Nasal Ointment: 2% mupirocin calcium in 1 gram single use tubes

Cream: 2% mupirocin as mupirocin calcium

FDA Indications/Dosages:

Topical treatment of impetigo due to Staphylococcus aureus, beta hemolytic streptococcus or Streptococcus pyogenes (Ointment): Cover the afflicted area with a small film of Bactroban three times a day. The treated area may be covered with a gauze dressing if desired. Patients not showing a clinical response within 3-5 days should be reevaluated.

As a prophylaxis and treatment of methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections in the nasal cavity (Nasal Ointment): Use ½ of each single-use tube in each nostril twice a day for 5 days. Press nostrils together and release repeatedly for one minute after applying ointment.

For the treatment of secondarily infected traumatic skin lesions due to Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus saprophyticus (Cream): Apply to the affected area three times a day. The treated area may be covered by gauze dressing is desired.

Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics: Mupirocin is a naturally occurring antibiotic produced by fermentation of the organism Pseudomonas fluorescens. Its mechanism of action is derived from an inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly and specifically binding to bacterial isoleucyl transfer-RNA synthetase. Mupirocin shows no cross resistance with other antibiotics.

Drug Interactions: Do not use the nasal ointment with any other nasal preparations.

Contraindications/Precautions: Contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its components. Not for ophthalmic use. As with other antibiotics, prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms. Pregnancy Category B.

Adverse Effects: Burning, stinging, or pain (1.5%). The nasal ointment may also cause headache (9%), rhinitis (6%), nasal congestion (5%), pharyngitis (4%), or taste disturbances (3%).

Patient Consultation:

Report dermatitis or swelling to physician.

Cover area with small film of ointment—do not rub in.

Do not use nasal ointment with any other nasal preparations.

Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and children.

Contact a physician if the above side effects are severe or persistent.