Common use

Bactroban Ointment is an antibiotic medicine used to treat certain skin infections such as impetigo (red sores), recurring boils, and others. It works by killing certain bacteria. This helps to improve your symptoms and cure the underlying infection.

Dosage and direction

Bactroban Ointment is meant for external use only. It should be applied only to the affected area of the skin as per the dosage and schedule prescribed by your doctor. In order to get the most benefit, apply it regularly and preferably at the same time each day. Do not use larger amounts or apply it more often or for a longer duration than directed. This will only increase the risk of side effects. Do not use it for more than 10 days. Avoid any contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth. Rinse it off with water if you accidentally get the medicine in these areas.

Precautions

Consult your doctor if you have any of these conditions:
Kidney disease
Large areas of burned or damaged skin
Stomach or intestine problems such as colitis
An unusual or allergic reaction to mupirocin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding

Contraindications

Bactroban Ointment is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.
Bactroban Ointment is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
Driving: No interaction found/established
Kidney: No interaction found/established
Liver: No interaction found/established
Alcohol: No interaction found/established

Possible side effect

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin.
Severe diarrhea, fever.

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness.

Drug interaction

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without telling your care team.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of Bactroban Ointment, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.