Bactroban Cream (mupirocin) is an antibacterial topical cream used to prevent or eradicate infection from Staphylococcal bacteria.

This product is intended for topical use only; it should not be used on mucous membranes, large open wounds, or swallowed. It can be used in patients as young as two months, though doctor approval is strongly desired before treatment begins.

Bactroban Cream works by causing Staphylococcal bacteria to produce abnormal proteins needed for survival; unable to utilize these faulty proteins, the bacteria die.

Before Starting Treatment

This product's active ingredient, mupirocin, is predominantly effective against Staphylococcus bacteria. Though these infections are quite common, most patients will be unable to correctly identify the bacteria involved in a given infection. Because Bactroban Cream is so selective in the bacteria it targets, patients are advised to have the offending bacteria identified by a doctor prior to starting treatment.

There are some strains of Staphylococcus bacteria that have already developed resistance to Bactroban Cream, and misuse of the product will contribute to further resistance. If treatment ends too early, lingering bacteria can develop resistance and the infection may return with a vengeance---and will now be more difficult to treat. Likewise overuse of the medication can also contribute to resistance. It's important to use as directed.

Bactroban Cream can be quite effective at eradicating bacterial infections resistant to other medications, including the notorious methicillin-resistant S. aureus, better known as MRSA. Again, the offending bacteria will need to be identified by a physician to choose the optimal treatment.

When used as directed Bactroban Cream has proven extremely effective for the treatment of appropriate skin infections with very little risk of adverse effects.

Dosage & Administration

Bactroban Cream is a non-greasy gel that is simply applied to the affected area, whether already infected or at risk of becoming infected. In the majority of cases treatment is very similar:

• Clean and dry hands and the application site prior to applying the ointment.
• Apply a dab of the ointment to the target area three times per day.
• A breathable bandage may be applied over the treatment if desired.
• Treatment typically lasts for 10 consecutive days. Do not use for longer or shorter periods without doctor instruction.
• Do not use Bactroban Cream with other topical treatments unless explicitly instructed to do so by a doctor.

Patients may experience some relief of symptoms within moments of the first application. The condition should be noticeably improved within 3 to 5 days of starting treatment. If there are no significant improvements within this time frame a doctor should be consulted; alternative treatments will likely be required.

Bactroban Cream is often used to treat impetigo, a common skin infection that can produce uncomfortable and unsightly symptoms. If treating impetigo keep in mind that the condition is very contagious and easily spread. Wash hands thoroughly after each application and carefully sterilize or dispose of any materials that have contacted the infected area.

Adverse Reactions

Rarely some patients experience an allergic reaction to Bactroban Cream, which should be considered a medical emergency. Warning signs include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of face and/or throat
• Rapid or erratic heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Hives, rash, or severe itching

Most people experience only mild side effects localized to the application site; these symptoms aren't cause for concern unless they become severe:

• Stinging
• Mild pain
• Mild itching

The above symptoms typically occur only when the ointment is first applied and fade away after a few moments.

Unfortunately some patients experience more severe adverse reactions from Bactroban Ointment. Consult a doctor if:

• The infection worsens or spreads during treatment
• Skin begins to peel or blister at application site
• New skin infections develop, even if seemingly unrelated
• Any other moderate to severe irritation develop around application site

Because Bactroban Cream is topical, interactions with orally-administered medications are very unlikely. If the medication is ingested by children or pets seek emergency medical advice.