Bactroban Ointment Description

Whether you like it or not, there are hundreds of bacteria living in our bodies and on our skin. It is believed that they protect our bodies from harmful microorganisms and, for the most part, leave us alone. However, a scratch, bug bite, or anything that breaks the skin barrier, can be like putting out the ‘Welcome’ mat to the resident bacteria.

Bactroban Ointment or generic Mupirocin is prescribed as a topical antibiotic to clear up skin infections causes by bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus. Either of these bacteria can cause a contagious skin infection called impetigo that usually affects children 4 to 12 years old. If the infection covers a large area, you may be advised to apply Bactroban Ointment as well as take an oral antibiotic to kill the bacteria quicker and begin healing.

Bactroban Ointment Clears Up Skin Infections

As Bactroban Ointment or generic Mupirocin is absorbed into your skin cells, it will work to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. This is a 2-step procedure that individual cells go through in order to make proteins that are essential to their survival. If the bacteria cannot make these proteins, they will die. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Other Uses for Bactroban Ointment

Bactroban Ointment can also be prescribed to treat folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicle that can cause a rash of red pimples that can be painful. Bacteria are the usual cause of folliculitis and it can happen on any part of your body; it most often occurs on your lower legs, arms, back, buttocks, and beard area.

Folliculitis can develop in a variety of ways. It may originate from a cut or scratch on your skin that bacteria happen upon and can make their way to hair follicles, an untreated or improperly treated hot tub or pool, wearing tight clothing that can irritate the follicles, or when men that use the same razor too often. Folliculitis can also be the result of a fungal infection or from tiny skin mites.

Before Bactroban Ointment is Prescribed

Talk to your doctor about any risks of using Bactroban Ointment while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. To determine if Bactroban Ointment is safe for you to apply, tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any current non-prescription drugs and Rx meds you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Bactroban Ointment Precautions

If Bactroban Ointment has not improved your skin infection within 3 to 5 days, revisit your doctor as you may require an oral antibiotic as well. See your pediatrician before applying Bactroban Ointment on young children. Wash hands before and after applying Bactroban Ointment to avoid passing any infections on to others.

Possible Side Effects of Bactroban Ointment

• Headache
• Dry skin areas
• Stinging/burning at treated area

Drugs Similar to Bactroban Ointment

• Levaquin
• Fucidin Ointment
• Bacitin Ointment