Bactroban

Bactroban is used to treat skin infections, e.g. those infecting the hair follicles and impetigo, and to kill bacteria, such as Staphylococci (including Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA]), Streptococci and Escherichia coli.

Can I get Bactroban online?

Bactroban can be prescribed following a quick online consultation. We may require a photo of the affected area but that is not always necessary. If we do require a photo, uploading a digital image could not be easier. Our skin consultations are free of charge and you are not under any obligation to make a purchase. Please begin by registering and answering a few questions about the reason you think you need Bactroban.

What is Bactroban?

Bactroban is an antibiotic that comes in three forms - a cream, ointment, and nasal ointment. The product is white or off-white and contains the active ingredient mupirocin. Mupirocin acts by stopping the infection-causing bacteria from producing the proteins that are needed for their growth and reproduction; it also kills them.

How to use Bactroban

Before and after using Bactroban, wash and dry your hands. With the cream and ointment, put a small measure on a clean unused cotton wool pad or gauze swab and apply to the skin that is infected. A plaster or other protective dressing can be used to cover the treated skin as long as your doctor has not said otherwise. With the nasal ointment, put a match-head sized spot on your little finger (you can use a cotton bud) and place it inside one nostril; then put another match-head sized spot of ointment up the other nostril. To ensure the medicine covers all the infected area, push the sides of your nose together. Always put the cap back on the tube after use.

Bactroban is usually applied to the infected skin 2 to 3 times a day. If you miss an application, then use the medicine as soon as possible unless you are due to apply it within the hour, and never use twice as much if you have to miss a dose. Your doctor will tell you how long to use Bactroban; don't stop beforehand or the bacteria may survive and the infection may not clear up. The cream and ointment usually work within 10 days; the nasal ointment works in 5 to 7 days. Don't use it beyond these times as you could develop an infection called thrush (Candida). Contact your doctor if the infection does not clear up within these times. Seek medical advice should you swallow the medicine and rinse your eyes thoroughly if it gets in your eyes.

Who can use Bactroban?

Bactroban should not be used if you have an allergy to mupirocin or any of the other product constituents. Regarding the ingredients, take advice from your doctor if the infection is widespread or you have problems with your kidneys. Always use the preparation - be it cream, ointment or nasal ointment - that has been prescribed for you. Routinely, let your doctor know about any prescription and non-prescription medicines that you are taking, have been taking, or may take. In circumstances of pregnancy, possible pregnancy, or breast feeding, speak to your doctor.

Bactroban Side Effects

You may have a rash or redness, itching, swelling, pain, burning, tingling or stinging of the treated skin. Uncommon is an allergic rash, or red, itchy, sore or dry skin on other areas of skin. If you have a swollen face, breathing difficulties or a serious skin reaction you may be allergic to Bactroban and should seek medical assistance immediately.

Please click on the free consultation button to proceed.

Reviewed by: Dr Loraine Haslam MBBS, DRCOG, DFSRH, LoC SDI, LoC IUT, MRCGP
GMC registration number: 4524038
Date: 5 January 2024
Next review: 4 January 2026
All UK registered doctors can have their registration checked on
The Medical Register at the GMC website.

Information Leaflet

Source and further information

Download Bactroban Patient Information Leaflet