Mupirocin is an antibiotic drug to treat impetigo and skin infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes . This drug is available in the form of an ointment or cream and may only be used according to a doctor's prescription.
Mupirocin works by blocking the enzymes needed by bacteria to make protein. Without the ability to make proteins, bacteria will stop growing and eventually die.
Mupirocin trademarks: Bactoderm, Bactroban, Mertus, Mupicor, Mupipro, Mupirocin Calcium, Pibaksin and Pirotop.
What is Mupirocin
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Antibiotics |
| Benefit | Coping with bacterial infections of the skin |
| Used by | Adults and children |
|
Mupirocin for pregnant and lactating women |
Category B: Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.
It is not known whether mupirocin is absorbed into breast milk or not. However, using mupirocin on the skin is generally safe for nursing mothers and their babies, unless mupirocin is used on the chest or nipple area. |
| Drug form | Ointments and creams |
Precautions Before Using Mupirocin
Before using mupirocin, you need to pay attention to the following things:
- Do not use mupirocin if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have.
- Consult your doctor about using mupirocin if you have an open wound, burn , or extensive skin damage.
- Talk to your doctor about using mupirocin ointment if you have kidney or liver disease .
- Tell your doctor if you are using other medications, including other topical medications and herbal products, to anticipate drug interactions.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience an allergic drug reaction or overdose after using mupirocin.
Dosage and Rules for Use Mupirocin
The dosage for mupirocin can vary depending on the dosage form and the conditions to be treated. In general, here are the details of the mupirocin dosage:
Medication form: 2% mupirocin ointment
Conditions: Impetigo and bacterial infections of the skin
- Adults and children: Apply medication to the infected area 2–3 times daily, for up to 10 days.
Medication form: Mupirocin cream 2%
Condition: Secondary bacterial infection of the skin
- Adults and children ≥1 year: Apply medication to the infected area 3 times daily, for up to 10 days. Contact your doctor if within 3–5 days the condition does not improve.
How to Use Mupirocin Properly
Follow the doctor 's instructions and read the information on the drug packaging before starting to use mupirocin. This drug is only used as a topical medication on infected skin.
Clean the skin area to be treated, then wash your hands before using the medicine. Gently apply the medication using a cotton swab, cotton pad, or gauze to the infected skin area .
A stinging feeling on the skin at every first use is normal and will disappear by itself.
If you feel it is necessary, you can cover the part that has been smeared with medicine with a plaster or other covering, unless your doctor instructs you to leave it open.
Be sure to use mupirocin regularly so that the drug is more effective. Even if your condition has improved, do not stop medication suddenly without your doctor's permission. This is to prevent the infection from reappearing.
Avoid drug contact with eyes, nose or mouth. If the area is exposed to the drug, rinse immediately with clean water.
Do not use mupirocin for more than 10 days. Consult a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 3–5 days after using the drug.
If you forget to use mupirocin, use it immediately if it is not close to the schedule for using the next drug. If it is close, ignore the missed dose and do not double the dose the next time you use the drug.
Store mupirocin in a cool place and avoid direct sunlight. Keep medicine out of reach of children.
Mupirocin Interactions with Other Drugs
It is not yet known what interaction effects can occur if mupirocin is used with other drugs or products. Even so, it is possible that mupirocin can interact with certain drugs or active ingredients.
Side Effects and Dangers of Mupirocin
Side effects that can arise from using mupirocin include:
- Skin feels burned or stinging
- The skin feels dry and itchy
- Reddish skin or a rash appears on the skin
- The skin hurts to the touch
- The infected area secretes more fluid
- Nauseous
Consult a doctor if these side effects do not improve or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects occur, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea , or bloody bowel movements.