Bactroban cream is made up of mupirocin, which is a topical antibiotic (for the skin). Bactroban is available for purchase in 30g and 90g bottles containing 2% mupirocin.

Bactroban Cream is used for the treatment of skin infections, usually either for impetigo (sores caused by bacteria) or  “staph” infections (usually a red, pimple-like infection caused by staphylococcus bacteria). There are other conditions not listed that Bactroban cream may be used for.

Mupirocin works by preventing further growth of bacteria on the skin.

Use Bactroban cream as directed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Bactroban is for use only on the skin, do not digest this medication. If this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with water thoroughly.

Wash your hands both before and after applying Bactroban.

Clean and dry the affected skin area before proceeding.

Use a cotton swab or gauze pad to apply a small amount.

Do not spread Bactroban over large areas of skin.

Bactroban is usually applied 3 times per day for 10 days. Only a small amount is needed.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had kidney disease.

Do not use this medication on a child without getting approval from your doctor.

This cream should not be used on an infant under the age of 3.

It is unknown whether or not this medication will harm an unborn child. Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant and want to use Bactroban cream.

Tell your doctor if you are breast feeding or plan to be as it is unknown whether mupirocin passes into breast milk.

If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, call your doctor as soon as possible.

Common Bactroban side effects may include:

• burning, stinging;

• itching; or

• pain.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody;

• severe itching, rash, or other irritation of treated skin;

• unusual skin blistering or peeling; or

• any signs of a new skin infection.

Can I use mupirocin ointment for diaper rash?

No. Only if it has become infected by bacteria.

Can mupirocin heal or help with eczema?

Only if the eczema has become bacterially infected. Otherwise, it would be considered a inflammatory skin condition, not a bacterial skin infection.

Can mupirocin be used for athletes foot?

No. You would need an antifungal cream, mupirocin is an antibacterial cream.

Is it safe to put on an open wound?

The polyethylene glycol in Bactroban can be absorbed by the body from open wounds (and damaged skin) and therefore it is not recommended you use Bactroban cream on an open wound.