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 school sores (impetigo), infection of the hair root and boils. Bactroban is also used when infection occurs in skin damaged by eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, herpes (cold sores), wounds, cuts, grazes, insect bites, minor burns etc. Bactroban ointment is for use on your skin only.

Before using Bactroban ointment

Tell your physician 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 physician 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 physician has prescribed it specifically for you and your condition. Do not use for other skin conditions - only use it for the skin infection your physician has prescribed it for. When you have finished treating the skin infection, discard the rest of the Bactroban ointment.

Before you start using Bactroban ointment

Tell your physician 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. If your physician has prescribed it for a cracked nipple, wash Bactroban off thoroughly before breastfeeding.

How to use Bactroban ointment

Follow your physician's instructions about how and when to use Bactroban ointment. Please read the direction label carefully. Bactroban ointment must not be taken orally (by mouth). If you have any questions about Bactroban ointment and how to use it, please ask your physician 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 physician 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 physician or pharmacist tells you to. If your infection does not improve within 1 week of starting treatment or becomes worse, check with your pharmacist or physician.

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.

While you are using Bactroban ointment

Stop using Bactroban ointment and tell your physician 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 (in babies) or mouth. If you have a cannulae (a tube that is inserted surgically into the body that allows for fluid to enter or escape): do not use Bactroban around it. If Bactroban ointment is accidentally applied to the eyes, wash the eyes thoroughly with water.

Bactroban ointment contains polyethylene glycol which can be absorbed by the body from open wounds and damaged skin. Polyethylene glycol is removed from the body by the kidneys. 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.

Very rarely Bactroban can cause an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include an itchy skin rash, shortness of breath and swelling of the face or tongue. Contact a physician immediately if you have these symptoms. Other side effects not listed may also occur in some people. Ask your pharmacist or physician 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 physician, or pharmacist if any other unusual events or problems occur during or shortly after treatment with Bactroban ointment.

Delivery Time: 7-14 Days