Bactroban Ointment 5g contains mupirocin 2% w/w as the active ingredient, a potent antibiotic specifically formulated for topical application to treat bacterial skin infections. It is indicated for primary infections like impetigo as well as secondary infected traumatic skin lesions. This prescription medication works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively eliminating susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. Its ointment base provides both medicinal and protective benefits, creating an optimal environment for healing while preventing further contamination.

Features

• Contains 2% mupirocin calcium in a polyethylene glycol base
• 5 gram tube with precise dosage control
• White to off-white, opaque ointment formulation
• Water-soluble base that doesn’t stain skin or clothing
• Stable at room temperature with two-year shelf life
• Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically
• Specifically active against gram-positive bacteria
• Preservative-free formulation

Benefits

• Rapidly eliminates causative bacteria at the infection site
• Reduces symptoms including redness, swelling, and discharge within days
• Prevents spread of infection to surrounding skin or other individuals
• Minimizes risk of scarring by promoting proper wound healing
• Convenient topical application avoids gastrointestinal side effects
• Short treatment course typically required (usually 5-10 days)

Common use

Bactroban Ointment is primarily prescribed for the treatment of impetigo, a contagious bacterial skin infection characterized by honey-colored crusted lesions. It is also effectively used for secondarily infected traumatic skin lesions such as lacerations, sutured wounds, or abrasions that have become infected. Dermatologists may recommend it for small areas of infected eczema or folliculitis. The medication is particularly valuable in cases where methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is suspected or confirmed, as it remains effective against many resistant strains.

Dosage and direction

Apply a small amount of Bactroban Ointment to the affected area three times daily. The area may be covered with a gauze dressing if desired. Wash hands before and after application unless hands are the treated area. For impetigo: gently remove crusted areas before application to maximize medication contact with infected tissue. Treatment typically continues for 5-10 days. If no improvement is seen within 3-5 days, reevaluation and culture are recommended. Do not use for longer than 10 days without medical supervision.

Precautions

Use only as directed by a healthcare provider. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use on extensive burns or large open wounds without medical supervision. Use with caution in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment, though systemic absorption is minimal. Discontinue use if sensitization or severe local irritation occurs. Not for ophthalmic, intranasal, or intravaginal use.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to mupirocin or any component of the formulation. Should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to polyethylene glycol. Contraindicated for use in the external ear canal if the eardrum is perforated. Not recommended for use on severe burns exceeding 10% of body surface area. Avoid in patients with history of allergic contact dermatitis to topical antibiotics.

Possible side effect

Most common: application site reactions including burning, stinging, or pain (≤1.5% of patients). Less common: itching (pruritus), rash, dryness, erythema, and nausea (≤1%). Rare: contact dermatitis, skin tenderness, swelling, and secondary infections. Systemic reactions are uncommon but may include headache, diarrhea, or taste perversion if applied near the mouth. Allergic reactions including urticaria and angioedema are possible but rare.

Drug interaction

No specific drug interactions have been clinically established due to minimal systemic absorption. However, concurrent use with other topical products may alter absorption characteristics or cause physical incompatibility. Avoid simultaneous application with other topical medications unless directed by a physician. The polyethylene glycol base may interact with certain dressing materials or other topical agents.

Missed dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application. Maintain the regular three-times-daily schedule. If multiple doses are missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on whether to extend the treatment duration.

Overdose

Topical overdose is unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption. Excessive application may increase the potential for systemic absorption, particularly if applied to large areas of broken skin. Symptoms might include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive; dialysis is not effective for removal due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused medication after the completion of treatment. Do not transfer ointment to other containers.

Disclaimer

This information does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Use only as prescribed. Individual results may vary. Not all uses or precautions are listed here. Report any adverse reactions to your physician immediately.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Bactroban Ointment achieves clinical success rates of 85-95% in impetigo patients. Dermatologists consistently rate it as a first-line treatment for localized bacterial skin infections. Patients report high satisfaction with its ease of application and rapid symptom improvement. The formulation is particularly praised for its non-greasy texture and minimal residue. Healthcare professionals value its efficacy against antibiotic-resistant strains while maintaining an excellent safety profile.