BACTROBAN™ OINTMENT
Mupirocin
What BACTROBAN ointment is used for
BACTROBAN ointment contains mupirocin (2% w/w) as the active ingredient.
Mupirocin is an antibiotic. Antibiotics work by killing bacteria, which can cause infection. BACTROBAN ointment is used for the treatment of certain types of skin infections such as eczema, psoriasis, herpes, wounds, lacerations, insect bites, abrasions, minor burns etc. BACTROBAN ointment is for use on your skin only.
Before using BACTROBAN ointment
When you must not use BACTROBAN
Tell your doctor if:
you are allergic to mupirocin or any of the other ingredients contained in this medicine. The ingredients are listed at the end of this leaflet. Signs of an allergic reaction may include an itchy skin rash, shortness of breath and swelling of the face or tongue.
if you have used BACTROBAN before and became unwell.
you have had an allergic reaction (such as a rash) to another cream or ointment which contained any of the ingredients in BACTROBAN ointment. Check with your doctor or pharmacist.
the expiry date printed on the pack has passed, the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.
the ointment shows visible signs of deterioration. Check with your pharmacist.
Do not give this ointment to anyone else; your doctor has prescribed it specifically for you and your condition.
Before you start using BACTROBAN ointment
Tell your doctor if:
you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. The use of BACTROBAN ointment has not been studied in pregnant women.
you are breastfeeding. The use of BACTROBAN ointment has not been studied in women who are breastfeeding.
How to use BACTROBAN ointment
Follow your doctor's instructions about how and when to use BACTROBAN ointment. Please read the direction label carefully. BACTROBAN ointment must not be taken orally. If you have any questions about BACTROBAN ointment and how to use it, please ask your doctor or pharmacist.
How and when to use it
Always wash your hands before and after applying BACTROBAN ointment.
Squeeze a small amount onto your finger-tip and apply to the affected area three times each day. Your doctor may tell you to cover the area with a dressing after you have applied BACTROBAN ointment.
How long to use it
Use BACTROBAN ointment for as long as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to.
If you forget to use BACTROBAN ointment
If you forget an application, apply some BACTROBAN ointment as soon as you can, then continue as before.
Overdose (Using too much BACTROBAN)
Problems of overdose with this medicine are unlikely. However if you or someone else has swallowed a large quantity of BACTROBAN ointment, telephone your doctor or go to the Accident and Emergency department at the nearest hospital. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. Be sure to show the doctor the BACTROBAN ointment tube or pack.
If your infection does not improve within 1 week of starting treatment or becomes worse, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
While you are using BACTROBAN ointment
Stop using BACTROBAN ointment and tell your doctor if you develop an allergic reaction (such as a rash, local pain or swelling).
Do not use BACTROBAN ointment to treat infections in or near the eyes, nostrils or mouth. If BACTROBAN ointment is accidentally applied to the eyes, wash the eyes thoroughly with water.
BACTROBAN ointment contains polyethylene glycol. Do not use BACTROBAN ointment on large areas of broken or damaged skin, especially if you suffer from reduced kidney function.
Do not mix BACTROBAN ointment with any other preparation. They may prevent BACTROBAN ointment from working.
Side-Effects
Besides their main effect, medicines may have some unwanted effects. Unwanted effects do not always occur in every person.
Like other medicines, BACTROBAN ointment may cause some side effects. If they occur they are most likely to be mild, and may become less after a few days. However, some may be serious and need medical attention.
Most unwanted effects reported after using BACTROBAN ointment are mild and occur in the area where the ointment is applied. Some people may develop itching, dryness, burning, redness, stinging, pain or swelling when applying BACTROBAN ointment, but this should quickly go away.
Allergic reactions can occur if BACTROBAN ointment is applied to open or infected wounds.
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some people. Ask your pharmacist or doctor about any effect that is troublesome or ongoing.
This medicine does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Remember, you should tell your doctor, or pharmacist if any other unusual events or problems occur during or shortly after treatment with BACTROBAN ointment.
Product description
Storage
You should keep BACTROBAN ointment in the original pack at room temperature (below 25°C). Do not freeze the ointment.
Do not leave BACTROBAN ointment in warm places such as a hot car.
Keep medicines out of the reach of children, such as in a locked cupboard.
What it looks like
BACTROBAN ointment is a white ointment supplied in 15g tubes.
Other ingredients:
BACTROBAN ointment also contains polyethylene glycol (Macrogol 400 and Macrogol 3350).
