Drug Notes

Mupirocin (On the skin)

Mupirocin (mue-PIR-oh-sin)

Treats skin infections.

Brand Name(s):

Bactroban, Centany, Centany AT, DermacinRx Clorhexacin, DermacinRx Surgical PharmaPak, Dermawerx Surgical Plus Pak, NuSurgePak, Whytederm SurgiPak

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Ointment

• Use your medicine as directed.
• Use this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease.
• This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Severe diarrhea that may be bloody, stomach cramps or pain
• Severe skin rash, burning, or itching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dry skin
• Mild diarrhea
• Mild stinging or burning where you apply the medicine

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017