Introduction
Bactroban, a well-known antibiotic ointment, is commonly used to treat bacterial infections of the skin and nose. Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, this effective treatment contains mupirocin calcium as its active ingredient. By targeting the bacteria responsible for infections, Bactroban helps eliminate harmful pathogens and promotes healing. Typically used in cases such as impetigo or infected wounds, Bactroban serves as an indispensable tool in managing certain bacterial skin conditions.
This article takes a closer look at Bactroban—its uses, how it works, comparisons with other antibiotics, and what patients should know when using it.
What Is Bactroban?
Bactroban, also known by its generic name mupirocin, is a topical antibiotic designed specifically for eradicating bacterial infections from the skin or nostrils. It is primarily used for superficial infections, such as impetigo caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus bacteria.
It’s important to note that Bactroban is not effective against fungal or viral infections. While Bactroban is the most recognized brand name for mupirocin, similar products include Centany or Centany AT, which are available in ointment and cream formulations designed for external use.
What is Bactroban Used For?
Bactroban is primarily prescribed to treat bacterial infections on the skin and within the nostrils. By inhibiting bacterial growth, it prevents the spread of infection while reducing associated symptoms such as swelling, redness, and discomfort.
Common Conditions Treated with Bactroban
- Impetigo (School Sores)
- A common and highly contagious skin infection that produces red sores or blisters, often developing a honey-colored crust as they heal.
- Infected Wounds
- Open cuts or scrapes that become contaminated with bacteria can benefit from Bactroban to prevent worsening of the infection.
- Preventing Infections in Vulnerable Patients
- For individuals prone to bacterial infections, healthcare providers may recommend Bactroban as a preventive measure.
Due to its ease of application, affordability, and minimal side effects, Bactroban is often favored over oral antibiotics for treating minor bacterial infections.
How Does Bactroban Work?
The active ingredient in Bactroban, mupirocin, disrupts bacterial protein synthesis, a critical function required for bacterial survival. Mupirocin works by binding to a specific bacterial enzyme called isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, which leads to the production of defective, non-functional proteins. Without the ability to produce the proteins needed to thrive and reproduce, the bacteria die, and the infection subsides.
When applied to infected skin or the inside of the nostrils, Bactroban helps clear bacteria, allowing the skin to heal. Patients generally see a reduction in symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pus discharge with consistent use.
Important Application Tips
- Avoid scratching, picking, or exposing the infected area unnecessarily.
- Gently clean the area with soap and water before application to reduce contamination.
- Apply a thin layer of Bactroban, which may then be covered with a sterile dressing if recommended by your healthcare provider.
Bactroban Compared to Other Antibiotics
When treating bacterial infections, there are several alternatives to Bactroban, all with distinct properties and targeted applications. Here’s how Bactroban measures up:
Bactroban vs. Bacitracin
- Bacitracin is a cyclic polypeptide antibiotic used for preventing wound infections and treating superficial bacterial conditions.
- In randomized studies for eliminating Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization, mupirocin (Bactroban) demonstrated higher efficacy, eradicating bacteria in 94% of test subjects, compared to only 44% with bacitracin.
- This makes Bactroban a preferred choice for eradicating S. aureus in many cases.
Bactroban vs. Fucidin
- Fucidin, comprising fusidic acid, is another topical antibiotic often used for treating skin infections like impetigo or infected eczema.
- Studies show that mupirocin (Bactroban) yields slightly higher bacteriologic cure rates (97%) compared to fusidic acid (87%). Patients often experience fast healing with both, but mupirocin may edge ahead when targeting stubborn infections.
Bactroban vs. Neosporin
- Neosporin is an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment containing neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin. While effective for minor cuts and scrapes, its spectrum of bacterial coverage is narrower than Bactroban’s, which is a prescription-strength option.
- Bactroban may be preferred for individuals with allergies to Neosporin or in cases involving resistant bacterial strains.
How to Use Bactroban
Proper application of Bactroban is essential for its maximum effectiveness. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure the infection clears up completely:
- Clean the Affected Area
- Wash the skin gently with soap and warm water. Avoid scrubbing, which can worsen irritation.
- Apply a Thin Layer
- Gently spread a small amount of Bactroban over the affected skin or inside the nostril if directed.
- Monitor for Side Effects
- Mild burning, redness, or stinging may occur initially but should diminish over time. Contact your doctor if symptoms worsen.
Missed Dose?
- If you miss an application, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one—don’t double up on applications.
How Long Does Bactroban Take to Work?
Treatment duration with Bactroban depends on the type and severity of the infection:
- Nasal Infections: Typically clears within 5 to 7 days with regular use.
- Skin Infections: Usually resolves after 7 to 10 days, though more severe cases may require extended treatment.
It’s important to finish the prescribed course, even if symptoms improve earlier, to fully eradicate the bacteria and reduce the risk of recurrence or resistance. If no improvement is seen within the recommended timeframe, consult your healthcare provider.
Potential Side Effects of Bactroban
Though Bactroban is well-tolerated in most cases, some individuals may experience side effects. These can range from mild irritation at the application site to more severe reactions in rare instances.
Common Side Effects
- Mild burning, stinging, or redness at the treated area.
- Skin dryness or cracking.
Less Common Side Effects
- Intense irritation or blistering.
- Diarrhea, which could persist even months after treatment ends.
If you experience unusual or severe symptoms, such as swelling, ulcer formation, or spreading redness, seek medical advice promptly.
Alternatives to Bactroban
If Bactroban is unsuitable due to allergies or other considerations, several alternative antibiotics are available:
- Fucidin (fusidic acid): Ideal for treating infected eczema or dermatitis.
- Fucidin H Cream: A combination of fusidic acid and hydrocortisone for skin infections with inflammation.
- Fucibet Cream: Offers dual-action treatment for inflamed, infected skin conditions.
Your doctor will determine the best alternative based on the nature of your infection and medical needs.
Key Takeaways
Bactroban (mupirocin) is a powerful, prescription-only topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections like impetigo, infected wounds, and nasal colonization of Staphylococcus aureus. Known for its fast action and minimal side effects, it effectively targets bacteria without affecting fungal or viral infections.
Ensure you follow the prescribed dosage and application schedule carefully, and monitor any side effects. For unresolved infections, or if symptoms worsen, consult with your healthcare provider promptly. Alternatives like Fucidin or bacitracin may be available in cases where Bactroban is not suitable.
By using Bactroban as directed, you’re taking a key step toward clearing infections and promoting skin health.
