Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic drug belonging to the class of cell membrane-active agents. It was approved by the U.S. FDA on 12th of April 2002 to treat impetigo.

Mupirocin is prescribed for the topical treatment of impetigo. Impetigo is a common and highly contagious bacterial skin infection that mainly affects children.

It can be used for external purposes only. To use this ointment, wash the affected area, apply a thin layer using gentle circular motions, and repeat two to three times a day or as directed. Avoid applying to open wounds or broken skin, and follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them. Mupirocin ointment generally does not cause any side effects. However, if you experience unfamiliar symptoms after using this ointment, consult your physician.

This drug is contraindicated and should not be used if you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Mupirocin or any of its components. If you have experienced an allergic reaction to this drug in the past, you should avoid using it. This ointment is intended for external use only and should not come into contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, it should be rinsed thoroughly with water

This medicine is not recommended for use on deep or puncture wounds. It is best to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate wound care and treatment in these cases. If you are a pregnant or breastfeeding woman, please consult your doctor before using this drug.

Do not share your Mupirocin ointment with others, even if they have similar symptoms. It is prescribed specifically for your condition, and using it without medical advice may not be effective for others. Avoid getting the medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water. It's important to use ointment for the full duration prescribed, even if the symptoms improve or disappear before completing the treatment. This ointment mainly helps to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated. Use a clean cotton swab or sterile applicator to apply a thin layer of this ointment to the affected area. Avoid using your fingers to minimize the risk of contamination.

1. Mupirocin ointment, 2% rx only - Food and Drug Administration. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2002/50788_Mupirocin_lbl.pdf (Accessed on 11 May 2023).
2. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Chemotherapy of microbial diseases, 12th edition, 2011, 1544.
3. Bertram.G.Katzung, Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, Cancer Chemotherapeutic drugs, 14th edition, 2017, 896, and 1070.
4. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology,Macrolide and other Antibacterial Antibiotics, 7th edition, 2013, 759.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.