Bactroban Ointment: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects in Pakistan

§1 Quick Info

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§2 What is Bactroban?

Bactroban is a topical antibiotic ointment containing the active ingredient Mupirocin 2%. It inhibits the bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase enzyme, which stops protein synthesis in bacteria. This mechanism makes Mupirocin either bacteriostatic or bactericidal — depending on concentration and the type of bacteria.

Mupirocin is especially effective against gram-positive organisms, including:

• Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA including methicillin-resistant strains)
• Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Strep)

It is for topical use only — systemic absorption is very low.

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§3 Bactroban Uses

• Impetigo: A contagious skin infection caused by gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus, Strep).
• Infected eczema (infected atopic dermatitis): Eczema patches that become affected by secondary bacterial infection.
• Bacterial skin wound infections: Small wounds or abrasions that become infected.
• Nasal MRSA decolonization: Only via the nasal formulation — this ointment is not used for that purpose.

> Note: For nasal MRSA decolonization, specifically the nasal formulation (Bactroban Nasal) is used, not this topical ointment.

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§4 Who Should Use This?

Bactroban is prescribed to those who:

• Have been diagnosed by a doctor with impetigo or a bacterial skin infection
• Have infected eczema or infected skin wounds
• Are not allergic to Mupirocin

Use only on a doctor's prescription.

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§5 When Not to Use (Contraindications)

• Allergy to Mupirocin or any ingredient in the ointment
• Use on deep wounds, burns, or puncture wounds
• In the eyes
• On mucous membranes

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§6 Dosage

> This is educational information. Always take the actual dose as per your doctor's prescription.

Typical regimen per BNF:

• Adults and children: Apply a small amount to the affected area 3 times daily
• Duration: Generally 5–10 days — follow the doctor's instructions
• If there is no improvement within 5 days, contact the doctor
• Using for more than 10 days increases the risk of resistance

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§7 How to Apply (Application Guide)

1. Wash hands thoroughly before application 2. Gently clean the affected area (if the doctor has advised) 3. Squeeze out a small amount of ointment from the tube 4. Apply a thin layer directly to the affected skin 5. Wash hands again after application 6. If the doctor has not advised dressing, do not cover with an airtight dressing 7. No need to rub in — apply gently

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§8 Best Time (When to Apply)

Apply at evenly spaced intervals — for example:

• Morning (e.g., 7 AM)
• Afternoon/Evening (e.g., 1–2 PM)
• Night (e.g., 8–9 PM)

A consistent interval maintains continuous antibiotic concentration on the skin.

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§9 With Food or Without?

This is a topical ointment — it has no relation to food. Apply to skin only — it is not taken orally.

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§10 Warnings

• For external use only — do not allow it into the eyes or internally
• Do not use beyond the prescribed duration — risk of antibiotic resistance
• Do not use on deep wounds, burns, or puncture wounds
• If allergic to mupirocin or any ingredient — do not use at all
• Keep out of the reach of children

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§11 Precautions

• Store below 25°C — keep away from direct sunlight and heat
• Keep out of the reach of children
• Complete the full course — do not stop even if the infection appears healed, or there is a risk of resistance developing
• Apply only to the affected area — avoid on healthy skin
• If skin worsens, see a doctor

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§12 Side Effects

§12.1 Common Side Effects

• Local burning or stinging at application site — generally mild and temporary
• Itching at the application site
• Mild local rash (rare)

These effects are generally minor and resolve on their own.

§12.2 Serious Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis: Severe redness, blistering, or swelling — stop use immediately and see a doctor
• Mupirocin resistance: Prolonged or inappropriate use can make bacteria resistant — this is why following the prescribed duration is essential

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§13 Drug Interactions

Mupirocin topical ointment has very low systemic absorption, so the risk of systemic drug interactions is minimal.

• Do not mix with other topical preparations without the doctor's permission — effectiveness may be reduced or irritation may increase
• No major cardiovascular (CV) interactions have been reported

Inform your doctor if you are using any medicine — topical or oral.

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§14 When to See a Doctor

Contact a doctor immediately if:

• Signs of allergic reaction: swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or severe rash
• Infection does not improve within 3–5 days or gets worse
• New skin lesions or blistering develop
• Fever or signs of systemic infection: red streaks around wound, warmth spreading, feeling systemically unwell
• Severe local reaction at the application site

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§15 Alternatives (متبادل ادویات)

> For severe or spreading infections, the doctor may also prescribe oral antibiotics (such as flucloxacillin, cloxacillin).

Do not start any alternative on your own — consult your doctor.

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§16 Price in Pakistan

Confirmed price for Bactroban Ointment (15g tube) is not currently available. Prices vary by pharmacy, city, and availability.

Always confirm the updated price from a local pharmacy or a licensed online platform.

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§17 FAQs

What is Mupirocin used for? Mupirocin (Bactroban) is applied on doctor's prescription for bacterial skin infections such as impetigo, infected eczema, and wound infections. The nasal formulation is used for MRSA decolonization. Do not use without a doctor's advice.

What are the side effects of Mupirocin? Burning, itching, or mild redness at the application site is common. Allergic contact dermatitis is a serious side effect — see a doctor immediately. Overuse can lead to resistance.

How should Mupirocin be applied? Apply a small amount to the affected area 3 times daily. Do not allow it to get into the eyes. Complete the prescribed course and do not stop on your own. Always follow the doctor's instructions.

What is the price of Mupirocin in Pakistan? Price varies by pharmacy and pack size. Confirm the current price from a local pharmacy or a licensed online platform.

Is Mupirocin safe? Mupirocin is generally safe at the doctor's prescribed duration and dose. Using it for longer than prescribed or without the doctor's permission can increase the risk of resistance. Consult your doctor during pregnancy.

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§18 Medical Review

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

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§19 Disclaimer

The information on this page is for awareness only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. PakVita is not responsible for any harm.