Drug reference

Mupirocin

Antibacterial · Antibiotic

Also known as Bactroban Nasal, Centany, Mupin, T-Bact, Mupirocin calcium

AntibacterialAntibiotic

CDSCO approvedSchedule H

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

Manufacturer advises to avoid unless potential benefit outweighs risk; no information available.

FDA category + note

Mechanism

Mupirocin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly binding to and inhibiting bacterial isoleucyl transfer-RNA synthetase. This action prevents the incorporation of isoleucine into bacterial proteins. Resistance can occur through mutations in the host gene for isoleucyl transfer-RNA synthetase or by the acquisition of an extrachromosomal gene (mupA) encoding a modified synthetase that binds mupirocin poorly, leading to high-level resistance. There is no cross-resistance with other antibiotic classes.

Indications

Eradication of nasal carriage of staphylococci (including MRSA)FurunculosisFolliculitisImpetigoInfected insect bitesSmall woundsDecolonization to eliminate nasal colonization with S. aureusPost-discharge decolonization following S. aureus bacteremiaIntranasal decolonization for recurrent S. aureus infections in the community

Dosing

Adult: Intranasal: Apply 2–3 times a day for 5 days to the inner surface of each nostril. A sample should be taken 2 days after treatment to confirm eradication. Course may be repeated once if sample positive (and throat not colonised). Dermatologic (2% ointment/cream): Apply thrice daily.
Pediatric: Intranasal: Apply 2–3 times a day for 5 days to the inner surface of each nostril. A sample should be taken 2 days after treatment to confirm eradication. Course may be repeated once if sample positive (and throat not colonised).
Renal adjustment: Manufacturer advises caution when mupirocin ointment is used in moderate or severe impairment due to macrogol (polyethylene glycol) content.