Mupimet (mupirocin) is a topical antibiotic effective against Staphylococcus infections of the skin, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It is generally not effective against other types of bacteria, nor will it provide benefit in treating fungal or viral infections.

This product works by causing Staphylococcus bacteria to produce abnormal proteins needed for survival; unable to utilize these faulty proteins, the bacteria die.

Mupimet can be used in all ages, including infants, though doctor approval is strongly recommended before use in very young children.

Treatment Overview

Mupimet is for topical use only; it should not be ingested or applied directly to mucous membranes.

For best results a doctor should identify the bacteria causing the infection, and doctor instructions should be followed for the full course of treatment even if the condition appears to clear up. Ending treatment early or continuing it longer can result in reinfection with antibiotic resistant bacteria, which will be considerably more difficult to treat.

Administration is simple:

• Clean and dry hands and the application site prior to application.
• Apply a dab of the medication to the target area three times per day.
• A breathable bandage may be applied over the area if desired.
• Do not use longer than ten consecutive days unless explicitly instructed to do so by a doctor.
• Do not use Mupimet with other topical treatments unless specifically instructed to do so by a doctor.

If treating impetigo keep in mind that the condition is contagious and easily spread. Wash hands thoroughly after each application and carefully dispose of any used dressings or other materials that have contacted the infected area.

Patients may experience some relief of symptoms, such as tenderness, itching, or inflammation, within moments of the first applying Mupimet. 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. Unresponsive conditions may be due to incorrectly identified bacteria or a strain that has already developed resistance to Mupimet.

Adverse Effects

Rarely some patients experience an allergic reaction to Mupimet, 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 Mupimet. 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 Mupimet is topical, interactions with orally-administered medications are unlikely. The medication should not applied to mucous membranes or open wounds. If the medication is ingested by children or pets seek emergency medical advice.

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 Mupimet 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 Mupimet, 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.