Bactroban Nasal Ointment (Mupirocin Calcium)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Bactroban Nasal Ointment Used For?
Bactroban nasal ointment contains mupirocin calcium, an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria that can cause infections.
Primary Uses
Used to remove bacteria from inside your nose, including the bacteria called ‘Staphylococcus aureus’ (golden staph). This medication is specifically designed for nasal use only.
How It Works
Mupirocin calcium belongs to a group of medicines called antibiotics. Antibiotics work by killing bacteria which can cause infection.
Good to know: There is no evidence that Bactroban nasal ointment is addictive.
How to Take Bactroban Nasal Ointment
Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully about how and when to use Bactroban nasal ointment. The instructions from your doctor may differ from general recommendations.
Dosage Instructions
Usually applied 2-3 times daily for 5-7 days. Do not use for more than 10 days. Always wash your hands before and after applying. Squeeze a small amount (about the size of a matchstick head) onto the tip of your little finger and apply to the inside surface at the front of each nostril. Gently press your nostrils together to help spread the ointment throughout your nose. A cotton swab may be used for infants or very ill patients.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget an application, apply some Bactroban nasal ointment as soon as you remember, then continue as before.
Important: Do not use a double dose to make up for the dose you missed. Take the full course of treatment – do not stop early as the bacteria may not be completely eliminated.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- irritation
- itching
- tingling
- burning
- stinging
- soreness
- facial pain
- post nasal drip
- sinus pain
- runny or blocked nose
- conjunctivitis
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, wheezing, swelling of lips/mouth, difficulty breathing, hayfever, lumpy rash, fainting)
- inflammation of the colon (diarrhea with blood and mucous, stomach pain, fever)
Important Warnings
Before using Bactroban nasal ointment, make sure to discuss your medical history and current medications with your doctor.
Who Should Not Take Bactroban Nasal Ointment
Do not use if you are allergic to mupirocin calcium or any other ingredients. Do not use if the expiry date has passed or if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or other medicines. Discuss any other medical conditions you may have. The use in children under 2 years of age is not recommended.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while using this medication.
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Bactroban nasal ointment and affect how it works. Tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking.
Important: Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure about what medicines, vitamins or supplements you are taking and if these affect Bactroban nasal ointment.
- Do not mix Bactroban nasal ointment with any other preparation as this may prevent it from working
Alcohol & Driving
Keep the ointment away from your eyes. If accidentally applied to the eyes, wash thoroughly with water.
Eye Contact
Keep the ointment away from your eyes. If Bactroban nasal ointment is accidentally applied to the eyes, wash the eyes thoroughly with water.
Storage
Store Bactroban nasal ointment in the original packaging below 25°C. Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, or sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom, near a sink, in the car, or on window sills. Do not freeze the nasal ointment. Keep where young children cannot reach it – a locked cupboard at least one-and-a-half meters above the ground is recommended.
Overdose Information
If you think you have used too much Bactroban nasal ointment or have swallowed it accidentally, you may need urgent medical attention. Immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26 in Australia), contact your doctor, or go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bactroban nasal ointment is usually applied 2-3 times daily for 5-7 days. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment as directed by your doctor to ensure all bacteria are eliminated.
No, there is no evidence that Bactroban nasal ointment is addictive.
If you forget an application, apply some Bactroban nasal ointment as soon as you remember, then continue as before. Do not use a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
No, do not use Bactroban nasal ointment for more than 10 days. Follow your doctor’s instructions about the duration of treatment.
No, do not mix Bactroban nasal ointment with any other preparation as this may prevent it from working properly.
If Bactroban nasal ointment is accidentally applied to the eyes, wash the eyes thoroughly with water immediately.
The use of Bactroban nasal ointment in children under 2 years of age is not recommended. For infants or very ill patients, a cotton swab may be used for application.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.