Mupirocin, an antibiotic, is used to treat impetigo as well as other skin infections caused by bacteria. It is not effective against fungal or viral infections.This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Usage

Mupirocin comes in an ointment that is applied to the skin. Mupirocin usually is applied three times a day for 1 to 2 weeks. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use mupirocin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Wash the affected skin area thoroughly, and then gently apply a small amount (a thin film) of the ointment. You may cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing.

Do not apply mupirocin to your eyes.

Do not apply mupirocin to burns unless told to do so by your doctor.

Special precautions

Before using mupirocin,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to mupirocin or any other drugs.

tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin).

tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using mupirocin, call your doctor.

Side effects

Mupirocin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
burning, stinging, pain, itching, or rash

Storage and disposal

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach.