Mupirocin

Products

Mupirocin is commercially available as creams, ointments, and nasal ointments (Bactroban). It has been approved in many countries since 1988.

Structure and properties

Mupirocin (C26H44O9, Mr = 500.6 g/mol) is a naturally occurring antibiotic obtained by fermentation from or obtained by other methods. It is present in drugs as the dicalcium salt mupirocin calcium, a white powder that is very sparingly soluble in water.

Effects

Mupirocin (ATC R01AX06) has antibacterial properties against , and β-hemolytic streptococci. It inhibits isoleucyl transfer RNA synthetase, thereby blocking bacterial protein synthesis.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. Dosage regimen depends on the indication and galenic form.

Indications

Mupirocin is used for the prevention and treatment of bacterial skin infections, including impetigo, folliculitis, furunculosis, and ecthyma. The nasal ointment is used to eliminate intranasal staphylococci, which are a source of the skin infections.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Other locally applied drugs may dilute the concentration of the antibiotic.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include local reactions such as a burning sensation, itching, redness, and hypersensitivity reactions (sensitization).