Mupirocin

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Canadian/Mexican Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used for the treatment of a variety of skin infections including impetigo, ecthyma, eczema, folliculitis, atopic dermatitis, epidermolysis, bullosa and minor wounds, burns, and ulcers caused by bacteria this agent kills.
• The nasal ointment can be applied to the nasal passages to kill a certain bacteria that is sometimes carried around by adult patients and healthcare workers. This is to prevent its spread to others.

How does it work?

• Mupirocin interferes with the metabolic processes of the bacteria causing death of the bacteria.

How is it best taken?

• Do not take by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• In skin infections, clean affected area before use.
• Use in a small amount over the area affected as a light film. Rub in gently.
• The treatment area may be covered by gauze dressing. Follow directions given by healthcare provider.
• For the nasal ointment, 1/2 the ointment from the tube should be placed into one nostril and the other 1/2 into the other nostril. The nostrils should be pressed together and released many times (for about a minute) to spread the ointment through the nostrils.
• Use entire prescription as directed, even if feeling better.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Return to your regular schedule.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Irritation, burning, itching at site of application.

What should I monitor?

• Change in skin infection. Is it better, worse, or the same?

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe burning, itching, swelling, or irritation.
• Any rash.
• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant)
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).

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