• Effectively treats conditions such as impetigo, infected cuts, and small wound
  • Targets the bacteria causing infection, helping skin heal more quickly
  • Well tolerated, with only mild and temporary side effects in most cases<

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Overview

Bactroban is a trusted antibiotic treatment for bacterial skin infections, including impetigo. Containing mupirocin, it works directly at the site of infection to stop bacteria growing and spreading, helping skin heal quickly and preventing complications.

Available as both cream (lighter, good for moist or exposed areas) and ointment (richer, protective for dry or covered areas), Bactroban offers targeted relief when infection strikes.

This medicine requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber, and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Bactroban 


Bactroban (mupirocin) is a topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections, especially impetigo — a highly contagious infection that causes red sores, blisters, and crusts, often around the mouth, nose, or limbs.

It is also effective against:

  • Infected eczema patches
  • Small boils or infected cuts
  • Folliculitis (inflamed/infected hair follicles)
  • Localised staphylococcal or streptococcal infections


By targeting the bacteria directly, Bactroban helps clear infections and reduces the risk of spreading to others.

Directions

  • Apply a small amount to the affected area 2–3 times daily, or as directed by your prescriber.
  • Use only on the affected skin.
  • Do not use on large areas or broken skin unless instructed.
  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • Complete the full prescribed course (usually up to 10 days), even if symptoms improve sooner.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Bactroban can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild stinging, burning, or itching at the application site
  • Dryness or redness


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Rash or allergic reaction
  • Worsening of underlying skin irritation


Most people tolerate Bactroban well, and side effects (if they do occur) are usually mild. If you are concerned about any symptoms, or they do not improve, speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or prescriber.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine for full details. If you experience severe or worrying symptoms, seek medical advice straight away. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

  • Do not use if allergic to mupirocin or any ingredient.
  • Not suitable for viral or fungal infections (e.g. cold sores, athlete’s foot).
  • Avoid use in the eyes, nose, or mouth unless specifically prescribed (special nasal Bactroban exists for MRSA carriers).
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a prescriber before use.
  • Use only for the prescribed duration to avoid antibiotic resistance.
Frequently asked questions
  • What is Bactroban Ointment and what is it used for?

    Bactroban Ointment contains mupirocin and is used to treat localised bacterial skin infections such as impetigo, infected scratches and minor wounds. The ointment formulation is especially helpful for dry, crusted or sensitive areas.

  • How does Bactroban Ointment work?

    Bactroban stops bacteria from multiplying, allowing the skin to heal. It is particularly effective against Staphylococcus aureus, including some strains resistant to other topical antibiotics. Its moisturising base makes it suitable for dry or cracked lesions.

  • How should I apply Bactroban Ointment?

    Apply a thin layer of Bactroban to the affected area up to three times daily or as directed. Wash hands before and after use and avoid airtight dressings unless instructed. Treatment normally lasts no longer than 10 days.

  • Why would a clinician choose Bactroban Ointment instead of the cream?

    The ointment is preferred for dry, cracked or crusted infections, and for areas where moisture balance is important. It may also be selected when the patient reacts to ingredients in the cream formulation.

  • What infections respond particularly well to Bactroban Ointment?

    It is commonly used for impetigo, infected abrasions, and small patches of infected dermatitis. It can also be used when infections arise in areas prone to dryness or friction.

  • What side effects can Bactroban Ointment cause?

    Mild burning, itching, stinging or redness can occur at the application site. Rarely, patients may develop swelling, blistering or signs of allergy. If irritation worsens or spreads, stop treatment and seek advice.

  • Can Bactroban Ointment be used inside the nose?

    Yes. The ointment formulation is sometimes used for intranasal application when prescribed for staphylococcal carriage. Use only as directed and avoid deep insertion or excessive amounts.

  • Does Bactroban Ointment help prevent infection in minor injuries?

    Yes. Bactroban may be prescribed for small cuts, abrasions or grazes that show early signs of bacterial infection. It helps reduce bacterial load and supports natural healing. It should not be used routinely on clean wounds without signs of infection.

  • Can Bactroban Ointment be used for angular cheilitis if it is infected?

    If angular cheilitis becomes secondarily infected with bacteria, a clinician may prescribe mupirocin ointment. However, if yeast is the primary cause, an antifungal cream may be more appropriate. Diagnosis is important to ensure correct treatment.

  • Is Bactroban Ointment suitable for use on the lips?

    It may be used around the lips for localised bacterial infections if prescribed. Avoid ingestion and apply only a thin layer. If the infection resembles cold sores, an antiviral treatment is required instead.

  • Can I use moisturisers or emollients alongside Bactroban Ointment?

    Yes. You can apply emollients to help restore the skin barrier, but avoid placing them directly over the mupirocin-treated area unless advised. Leave time between applications so the ointment is not diluted.

  • Can Bactroban Ointment help with infected shaving cuts?

    Yes. If shaving cuts become red, tender or produce pus, a clinician may recommend mupirocin to control the infection. Good shaving hygiene and avoiding further irritation help the area heal faster.

  • Is Bactroban Ointment safe for children?

    Yes. Bactroban Ointment can be prescribed for children with small bacterial skin infections, including impetigo. Caregivers should apply it exactly as advised and avoid using it on large areas without medical guidance.

  • Can Bactroban Ointment be used for folliculitis?

    Mupirocin may help when folliculitis is caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. However, if shaving, sweating or yeast overgrowth is the cause, alternative treatments may be needed. A clinician can advise based on the pattern and severity.

  • What should I do if Bactroban Ointment does not improve the infection?

    If there is no improvement after 7–10 days, the infection may be resistant or incorrectly diagnosed. You may require a different antibiotic, antifungal or oral treatment depending on the cause. Review with a clinician is recommended.

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