Mupirocin Nasal Ointment

What is this medication?

MUPIROCIN (myoo PEER oh sin) prevents and treats infections caused by bacteria. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria in your nose, which lowers your risk of infection. It will not treat colds, the flu, or infections caused by viruses.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Bactroban

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• An unusual or allergic reaction to mupirocin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the nose. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other nose products without telling your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

If your nose is severely irritated, burning or stinging from use of this medication, stop using it and contact your care team.

Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
• Severe diarrhea, fever

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in taste
• Cough
• Headache
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not refrigerate. One tube of ointment is for single use in both nostrils. Throw away after use.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.