Mupirocin (brand name Bactroban) is a prescription topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections.
It is primarily effective against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Common Uses: Impetigo: Treating highly contagious skin sores. Infected Wounds: Treating traumatic skin lesions such as small lacerations, minor cuts, scrapes or sutured wounds that have become infected.
MRSA Colonization: The nasal ointment form is used to eliminate MRSA bacteria from the nostrils of patients or healthcare workers to prevent the spread of infection.
Topical Ointment/Cream: Clean and dry the area, then apply a small amount usually 3 times a day for 1 to 2 weeks.
Nasal Ointment: Applied directly into the nostrils, followed by pressing the sides of the nose together to spread the medication.
Applied directly to the affected area usually 2-3 times daily for about 5-10 days, depending on the condition
Common forms: ∙ 2% ointment or cream for skin application ∙ Nasal ointment for nasal decolonization)
Side Effects and Precautions:
Burning, stinging, itching, or pain at the application site.
Allergic Reactions
Cautions: Avoid contact with eyes.
With kidney disease:some formulations contain polyethylene glycol which can be absorbed through damaged skin.
Extended use may lead to secondary fungal or yeast infections.
Mupirocin works by binding to the bacterial enzyme isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, which halts the production of essential proteins the bacteria need to grow.
Prevents bacteria from producing proteins they need to survive and multiply.
It’s particularly effective against Staphylococcus and Streptococcus bacteria.
It is unique because it does not typically show cross-resistance with other common antibiotics.
Bacterial decolonization with Mupirocin nasal ointment reduces severe, acute radiation oral mucositis, and improves quality of life by alleviating, oral pain and swallowing difficulties.