Dermatologist's Take
Mupirocin (Bactroban) is a prescription topical antibiotic for impetigo and minor skin infections, and it can clear staph or MRSA from the nose. It is only for small, surface infections, not deep or serious ones. Short courses help prevent resistant bacteria.
At a glance
- AKA: Bactroban; Centany
- Drug Class: Topical antibiotic
- Rx or OTC: Prescription only
- Typical Dose: Thin layer to the skin 3 times a day; nasal ointment twice a day for 5 days
- Time to Work: Skin infections often improve within 3 to 5 days
- Evidence Level: Strong for impetigo and minor bacterial skin infections; effective for clearing nasal staph/MRSA
- Important: For small, surface infections only, not for large, deep, or serious infections
What is it?
What is it text.
How it works
Mupirocin stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow. It blocks a specific bacterial enzyme (isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase). Without it, the bacteria cannot build proteins, so they stop multiplying and die. It works well against the common skin bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (including some MRSA strains) and Streptococcus. Because it is put right on the skin or in the nose, it acts where the bacteria are.
What it treats
How it's typically used
- Skin infections (like impetigo): apply a small amount to the affected area 3 times a day, usually for up to 10 days. You can cover it with a light gauze dressing.
- Clearing nasal staph/MRSA (Bactroban Nasal): put about half of a single-use tube into each nostril twice a day for 5 days, then gently press the sides of the nose together to spread it.
- Use the full course even if the skin looks better, unless your doctor says to stop.
- It is meant for small, surface-level infections. Deep, large, or spreading infections usually need antibiotic pills or other care.
This is educational only. Follow your doctor's directions.
Common side effects
- Burning, stinging, or itching where applied
- Redness or dryness
- For the nasal form: stinging, a bad taste, a runny nose, or a mild nosebleed
- Headache (more common with the nasal form)
Serious side effects
- Signs of a strong allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)
- Severe skin irritation, blistering, or a spreading rash
- Ongoing or worsening diarrhea (rarely, a gut infection called C. difficile)
- An infection that gets worse instead of better
Stop use and call a doctor if irritation is severe, or if the infection spreads or does not improve within 3 to 5 days.
Who shouldn't take it
- Do not use if you are allergic to mupirocin or any ingredient in the product.
- Not for use in the eyes.
- The ointment base (polyethylene glycol) means it should be used with caution on large open wounds or severe burns, or in people with serious kidney problems, because more of the base could be absorbed.
- Avoid long-term or repeated use, which can lead to resistant bacteria or overgrowth of other germs.