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Topical antibiotic (pseudomonic acid)

Mupirocin 2% Ointment

Brand names: Bactroban (2% ointment, 2% nasal ointment)

Mupirocin 2% ointment is a topical antibacterial used for impetigo and other localised skin infections, and for nasal decolonisation of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

US labelling (FDA)

Reference — US labelling, may differ from UK

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION A small amount of Mupirocin Ointment USP, 2% should be applied to the affected area 3 times daily. The area treated may be covered with a gauze dressing if desired. Patients not showing a clinical response within 3 to 5 days should be re-evaluated.

Source: US FDA prescribing information (openFDA / DailyMed), label dated 2024-12-13. Accessed 2026-06-12. US dosing and indications can differ from UK practice — use UK sources for prescribing decisions.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, halting protein synthesis; this distinct mechanism means little cross-resistance with other antibiotic classes.

Prescribing in practice

  • Limit the duration of use and avoid repeated or prolonged courses to reduce the risk of resistance.
  • It is intended for small, localised areas, not for large surface areas or widespread infection.
  • A specific nasal formulation is used for MRSA nasal carriage; the skin ointment and nasal preparation are not interchangeable.

Monitoring

Review clinically for response over the treatment course; if there is no improvement, reconsider the diagnosis, consider swabs for sensitivities and review for resistance.

Counselling the patient

  • Apply a small amount to the affected area as directed and wash your hands afterwards.
  • Use it only for the short course prescribed and do not keep using leftover ointment for new problems.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes; seek advice if the skin becomes more irritated.

Evidence & guidelines

Effective for localised impetigo and central to MRSA decolonisation regimens; UK guidance stresses short, targeted courses to preserve activity.

Reference: NICE NG153 Impetigo; PHE MRSA Decolonisation Guidance; BAD Impetigo Guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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