Bactroban (Mupirocin) Cream & Ointment

Bactroban

Bactroban Cream/Ointment is an antibacterial topical treatment for a range of skin conditions. It contains the active ingredient Mupirocin, which is classified as an antibiotic.

It can be used to treat infections that attack the hair follicles, as well as impetigo. Examples of bacteria that can be treated with Bactroban include Staphylococci (including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA]), Streptococci, and Escherichia coli.

When to Use Bactroban Cream?

Bactroban Cream is most commonly prescribed for Impetigo, a highly contagious bacterial skin infection.

However, it can also treat impetigo and folliculitis. The cream works by killing existing bacteria and strengthening the skin's defences to prevent new bacteria from growing.

As a prescription-only treatment, you'll need a doctor or online pharmacist to authorise it before you purchase the cream.

Age Restrictions for Bactroban Cream

Bactroban is an effective treatment for adults and children. In some cases, it may be prescribed for children over one year old. However, some formulations and applications are only suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over.

How to Use Bactroban Mupirocin Cream Ointment?

When using Bactroban 2% cream, please follow these instructions:

• Prepare: Wash your hands with soap and water before applying the cream. You should also carefully clean and dry the affected area before.
• Application: Use a thin layer of cream and gently apply it to the affected area. For severe infections, it's best to use a cotton bud or gauze.
• Cover the Area: In some cases, your doctor may recommend covering the area with a bandage or dressing. However, you should never use an airtight or plastic-covered bandage, as it can trap moisture.
• Rewash Your Hands: After applying the medicine, wash your hands thoroughly.

In most cases, your GP will prescribe the cream for 10 days. Please don't exceed this application time.

When to Avoid Using Bactroban (Mupirocin) Cream?

It's important to remember that Bactroban is a powerful antibiotic, and there may be cases where you should avoid using it.

These include:

• Known Allergies: If you've ever had a reaction or are sensitive to any of the ingredients in Bactroban, you should avoid using it.
• Near the Eyes: Never use Bactroban Cream/Ointment around or in the eyes, as it can result in severe irritation.
• Other Sensitive Areas: You should also avoid applying the cream near the mouth, genitals, or other sensitive areas - unless your doctor advises you to do so. Some formulations are designed to treat sensitive areas.

Precautions for Bactroban Cream

If any of the following apply, it's important to take precautions and speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using the cream:

• Kidney Problems: Polyethene Glycol can be absorbed through broken skin, and this can lead to toxicity in individuals with impaired kidney function.
• Damaged Skin: If you have large cuts, ulcers, or scrapes, you shouldn't apply the cream, as it can increase PEG absorption.
• Widespread Infections: Some infections respond best to oral antibiotics, and Bactroban will have minimal impact.
• Fungal and Viral Infections: The cream is an antibiotic and is only suitable for bacterial infections.

Ingredients of Bactroban Cream

Bactroban contains the active ingredient of Mupirocin Calcium (2.15% w/w), which is equivalent to 2.0% Mupirocin free acid.

This is the antibiotic ingredient responsible for killing bacteria.

Inactive ingredients include:

• Xanthan gum
• Purified Water
• Cetomacrogol 1000
• Liquid Paraffin/Mineral Oil
• Phenoxyethanol
• Stearyl Alcohol
• Cetyl Alcohol
• Benzyl Alcohol