Bactroban

What is Bactroban?

Bactroban is an antibiotic cream or ointment, which contains mupirocin as the active ingredient. Mupirocin is used to treat infected hair follicles or folliculitis, and skin infections with blistering and crusting, known as impetigo.

Folliculitis is when the hair follicles become inflamed, usually due to injury or infection. It often happens in areas with thick, coarse hair, like the head, neck, underarms, groin and buttocks. Folliculitis can cause red or white bumps that may contain pus and can burst open and release fluid.

Impetigo begins with red sores or blisters, although it may be more difficult to notice the redness in brown and black skin. These sores or blisters ooze for a few days, after which they form crusty patches with a golden-brown colour. They may go away on their own, but treatment helps them heal faster and reduces the risk of spreading the condition to others. Impetigo is not serious, but it’s very contagious.

Bactroban can also be used to treat other skin infections caused by germs called Staphylococci, Streptococci and E. coli. This group includes MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a bacterium responsible for skin infections, such as boils, abscesses and cellulitis, which is more difficult to treat because it’s resistant to some antibiotics.

How does Bactroban work?

The active ingredient in Bactroban, mupirocin, is a natural antibiotic, first discovered in an organism called Pseudomonas fluorescens. What’s interesting is that it has a unique structure and an uncommon mechanism of action, so bacteria are less likely to be resistant to it.

It works by targeting isoleucyl-transfer RNA, a crucial molecule involved in making certain proteins that help to form new bacterial cells. By targeting this molecule, Bactroban prevents the germs from multiplying and causes them to die off.

What forms of Bactroban are there?

You can get Bactroban in two forms: Bactroban 2% Cream and Bactroban 2% Ointment. The cream contains 21.5mg of mupirocin calcium in each gram. The ointment has an equivalent amount of mupirocin (20mg) in each gram.

How to use Bactroban

Remember to always use Bactroban as your clinician advised you to. Usually, you'll apply it to your skin up to three times a day. Here's how to do it:

1. Start by washing and drying your hands.
2. Take a small amount of Bactroban and apply it to a clean cotton wool pad or gauze swab.
3. Gently apply the cream or ointment to the area of your skin that’s affected.
4. If your doctor hasn't instructed you otherwise, you can cover the treated area with a plaster or dressing.
5. Once you've finished applying the cream, remember to wash your hands again.

It's important not to mix Bactroban with any other topical medications on the infected area of your skin, as this may reduce its efficacy.

How long does Bactroban take to work?

After you start using Bactroban, you should start to see some improvement in your condition within a few days. If you don't notice any improvements after 4-5 days, or if your symptoms haven't gone away by the end of the recommended treatment period, you should ask your clinician for advice. They may suggest alternative treatments.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Bactroban?

If you forget to use Bactroban, simply apply it as soon as you remember. But if your next dose is less than an hour away, it's better to just skip the missed dose. Don't double up on your dose to make up for the missed one.

If you accidentally swallowed Bactroban or applied more than you should have, wash off the cream or ointment and contact your doctor. This is especially important if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, itchiness or swelling. 

It's important to complete the full course of Bactroban treatment to ensure that all the bacteria are eliminated and to prevent any potential regrowth. If you have any questions or concerns about when to stop using the ointment or anything else, make sure to ask your clinician for guidance.