Mupirocin Antibiotic: Uses and Dosage

Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic used to treat skin infections, such as impetigo. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Mupirocin is available as an ointment or cream.

Mupirocin FAQ

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Is mupirocin a prescription drug?

Mupirocin is a prescription drug. It comes as a topical ointment and a topical cream. Mupirocin topical ointment is available as the brand-name drug Centany. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name drug.

How does mupirocin work?

Mupirocin is chemically a carboxylic acid. It works by blocking a bacteria's ability to make protein, which usually results in bacterial death. Mupirocin was initially isolated in 1971 from Pseudomonas fluorescens. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.

What is mupirocin ointment?

Mupirocin ointment is a medication that treats bacterial skin infections. It prevents bacteria growth and kills existing bacteria on your skin. You can rub this medication on your affected skin. Make sure you wash your hands before and after using the ointment. The brand names of this medication are Bactroban® and Centany®. What is this medication?

What is mupirocin used for?

Mupirocin is used as a topical treatment for bacterial skin infections (for example, boils, impetigo, or open wounds), which are typically due to infection by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It is also useful in the treatment of superficial methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections.

Is mupirocin bactericidal?

It is available only as a 2% topical preparation, which is bactericidal against staphylococci and beta-hemolytic streptococci . Systemic absorption of topical mupirocin is negligible. Impetigo and Ecthyma Impetigo is a superficial skin infection with crusting or bullae caused by streptococci, staphylococci, or both.

How effective is mupirocin?

Proper administration of mupirocin effectively eliminates infectious symptoms in over 85% of impetigo cases. Mupirocin has consistently demonstrated its efficacy in eradicating intranasal MRSA colonization in healthcare settings.