Mupirocin Ointment

Mupirocin is the generic name for a topical medicine, purported to be effective in treatment of impetigo. And impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pyrogenes (in same cases). Most commonly reported amongst kids and children, it is extremely contagious. The notable symptoms of impetigo include increased redness, soreness and outbreak of blisters in various parts of the body. In the market, you will find Mupirocin ointment under the brand names, Centany, Bactroban and Bactroban nasal.

Mupirocin Ointment: What is it?

A lot of antibiotic drugs and medications are developed in medical science, which claim to be effective against specific bacterial diseases. And it is virtually not possible to keep a track of them. However, it is mandatory to know the therapeutic action, dosage to be used and probable side effects, before actually using any medication for therapeutic purpose. Coming to Mupirocin, this natural antibiotic, represented by the molecular formula C₂₆H₄₄O₉, is derived from the bacterial strain Pseudomonas fluorescens.

The FDA has approved Mupirocin ointment in the year 1987. In this ointment formulation, castor oil, propylene alcohol, hard fat and other base ingredients are used in specific amounts. Speaking about, Mupirocin ointment 2 percent, it is made up of 20 milligram Mupirocin with other base ingredients. In addition, Mupirocin nasal ointment is formulated for application in the nose. Approved by FDA in 1995, this topical medication is administered by patients and people working in health care centers to minimize the risk of severe staph infections during their stay in hospital.

Mupirocin Ointment: Therapeutic Action

From the above info, you might have understood about, 'what is Mupirocin used for'. Yes, Mupirocin ointment uses are concentrated on impairing growth or killing of Staphylococcus, MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) and other gram-positive bacteria. Inside the bacterium, it impairs the activity of enzyme isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase. Based on the dosage concentration, Mupirocin medication is either bacteriostatic or bactericidal. Under low dosage, Mupirocin ointment slows down the growth of bacteria, whereas it is effective for killing bacteria under high concentration.

Mupirocin Ointment: How to Use it?

Regarding the usage directions for Mupirocin ointment, this antibiotic is strictly recommended for topical use only (not internally). To get the best results, clean the affected parts properly with antibacterial soap and water. Dab it dry and apply Mupirocin ointment. Take some in your fingertips and rub it over the affected skin. For most patients, applying three times a day has shown good results. After ointment application, using bandage for covering the affected skin area is optional.

For safety purpose, do not apply Mupirocin ointment near the eyes, nose, mouth or sensitive skin areas. Also, stop using this ointment, if the skin is severely affected with open wounds. In such cases, consult the doctor first, and take his/her opinion about the safety of applying Mupirocin medicine. And one more important point to be noted is using this antibiotic medicine for the recommended period. Failure to do so may trigger recurrent bacterial infections. If used properly, skin symptoms may subside within 3-5 days of using this antibiotic formulation.

While Mupirocin ointment is effectual for treating mild cases of impetigo, the doctor may recommend a course of oral antibiotics for severe infections. In some people, use of this topical medicine cause some adverse effects, like itching, burning sensation, stinging and at times, pain. Manifesting these adverse reactions in the first day is quite normal, and they subside when the skin gets used to it. Nevertheless, if the skin symptoms persist for an extended period, stop applying it, and take medical supervision as soon as possible.