What Is Bactroban Cream Used For?

Bactroban cream is a type of prescription topical medication. Two percent of the volume of this cream is made up by the active ingredient mupirocin calcium. Doctors commonly prescribe Bactroban cream for bacterial infections of the skin.

Types of Bacteria

Bactroban is used to treat infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. These infections are commonly known as staph or strep infections, respectively.

Size

Bactroban cream is typically only used to treat infections that are smaller than 10cm in length, according to RxList. Larger infections usually require intravenous or oral antibiotics.

Function

Bactroban disrupts the process of protein synthesis in bacteria cells, which is required for the bacteria to produce energy and reproduce. Without protein synthesis, the bacteria dies.

Time Frame

Bactroban is usually applied between three and ten times per day, depending on the severity of the infection. If there is no improvement within three to five days, doctors may switch to a different type of antibiotic.

Risks

The most common side effects of Bactroban cream are headaches, rashes and nausea, according to RxList. If you are pregnant or nursing, it may not be safe for you to use Bactroban cream, cautions the Mayo Clinic.

References

• RxList: Bactroban
• Mayo Clinic: Bactroban

Resources

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