The prescription drug mupirocin (Bactroban^®) is approved for the treatment of various bacterial infections, such as impetigo and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Because the medication is an antibiotic, you cannot treat ringworm with mupirocin. It is not effective against infections caused by viruses, fungi, or other organisms -- just those caused by bacteria.

There are three different forms of mupirocin: an ointment that is applied to the nasal passages, an ointment that is applied to the skin, and a cream that is applied to the skin. The skin and nasal ointments cannot be used interchangeably and must be used only as directed.

Depending on the form being used, the medication is applied two to three times a day. It is important to follow the dosing guidelines exactly as your healthcare provider recommends to prevent bacterial resistance.

(Click What Is Mupirocin Used For? to learn more about both licensed and off-label uses for this drug. This article describes in detail the conditions this drug can treat, how it works, and whether it is approved for children.)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD

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