Bactroban Ointment

The active ingredient in Bactroban is mupirocin. It is an antibiotic, and this medicine’s mechanism of action prevents germs from producing specific proteins necessary for survival. This kills bacteria and helps heal skin infections.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Bactroban. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Bactroban:

• Do not take by mouth. Bactroban is solely for use on the skin. If this medication gets into your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with water.
• Bactroban contains polyethylene glycol and should not be used on open skin wounds or damaged skin. This ingredient can harm your kidneys if you are exposed to large amounts of it.
• Wash your hands before and after using Bactroban.
• Cleanse and dry the afflicted skin region. Using a cotton swab or gauze pad, apply a tiny dose of Bactroban cream or ointment as instructed.
• Do not apply Bactroban to wide areas of skin.
• Bactroban is typically administered three times each day for ten days. Apply only a tiny amount of cream or ointment.
• Only use a sterile gauze dressing to protect the treated skin. Do not cover treated areas with bandages, plastic wrap, or any other covering that prevents air circulation.

The most common side effects of Bactroban seen in clinical trials include:

• Headaches.
• Burning or a stinging sensation in the affected area.
• Rash.
• Itching.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Bactroban. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• A severe allergic reaction or adverse reactions include a rash, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
• Severe infectious diarrhea due to an overgrowth of a bacterium called C. difficile. Symptoms include a high heart rate, fever, nausea, and numerous episodes of diarrhoea (up to 10 or 15 per day).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Bactroban. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Bactroban, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have any of the following that apply:

• Kidney disease.
• Are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.
• Are breastfeeding or plan on breastfeeding.

You should not use Bactroban if you are allergic to mupirocin or any of the inactive ingredients in the formulation.

Bactroban Cream or ointment is often applied several times daily for up to ten days, depending on your skin condition and the severity of the illness. You should feel better within a few days. If your symptoms persist after completing the treatment, consult your doctor.

When Bactroban is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Other drugs you take orally or inject are unlikely to interact with mupirocin when applied topically. However, make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Apply a tiny dose of mupirocin ointment or cream with a cotton swab or gauze pad to the affected skin three times a day for up to ten days.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is the company that manufactures Bactroban.

There are several lower-cost versions of Bactroban available.

Take this medication for the whole amount of time suggested. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is fully resolved. Skipping doses may also increase your chance of developing antibiotic-resistant infections.

It is not known if Bactroban is safe to use during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known whether mupirocin is present in human milk, has effects on the breastfed child, or has effects on your milk production. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.