Is Bactroban (ointment) effective? Instructions, reviews of those who have ever used this tool will be described in this article. In addition, you will learn about what is part of the medication mentioned, for what purpose it is prescribed, whether it has side effects and contraindications.
Composition, description and packaging of local products
What components does Bactroban ointment contain? Reviews of doctors report that the composition of this medication includes such an active substance as mupirocin. It also contains auxiliary ingredients in the form of macrogol 400 and macrogol 3350.
White or almost white ointment with a uniform texture is available in sharp-pointed aluminum tubes, which are contained in cardboard boxes.
Pharmacological action of a local drug
What is the medicine "Bactroban"? Instructions, reviews of experts report that this is an antibiotic that has a wide spectrum of action. The ointment is intended for local and external use. Its active substance is produced by a microorganism such as Pseudomonas fluorescens.
The drug in question is capable of inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells. This happens through a reversible connection with isoleucyl tRNA synthetase.
When using mupirocin in minimum concentrations, it is able to have a bacteriostatic effect, and at higher concentrations it is bactericidal.
Due to the unique chemical structure and special mechanism of action, there is no cross-resistance in this medication with other antibiotic agents.
If the dosages of the drug are observed, the risk of the formation of resistant strains of microorganisms is relatively small.
Pharmacokinetic indicators
Is Bactroban absorbed? Reviews say that with local and external use, this medication practically does not penetrate the skin integument.
In the event that the ointment was applied to the damaged area, it can be slightly absorbed and metabolized to an inactive metabolite such as monic acid.
The active substance of the drug is quickly excreted from the body with urine.
Indications for use
For the treatment of which diseases is the drug “Bactroban" used? Reviews of experts say the following indications:
- Secondary skin infections: infected trauma (insect bites or abrasions), infected eczema, as well as minor burns and wounds that do not require hospitalization of the patient.
- Primary skin infections: folliculitis, impetigo, ecthyma and furunculosis (e.g., auricle boils, boils of the external auditory canal).
- Bacterial lesions (for prevention) and their complications that arose as a result of small cuts and wounds.
For what other purposes can the drug “Bactroban" be used? Nasal ointment, reviews of which are only positive, is actively used in otorhinolaryngological practice for staph infections of the nasal cavity.
Contraindications
What are the contraindications for the use of the drug "Bactroban"? Reviews of doctors report that this medication should not be used if the patient is hypersensitive to drug substances.
Also, the ointment is not prescribed for damage to the skin and nasal mucosa.
According to the attached instructions, the drug in question is not recommended for use during gestation and during breastfeeding.
In case of severe violations of the renal system (congenital anomalies, insufficiency), the Bactroban medication is prescribed with extreme caution, assessing the possible risks and long-term consequences.
How should I use Bactroban ointment?
Reviews of doctors indicate that this medication must be applied externally three times a day. A small amount of the drug is applied to the affected skin, and a gauze bandage is applied on top (if necessary).
The duration of therapy with such a medication is ten days (no more), depending on the degree of damage.
In the event that the therapeutic result is absent after five days, it is necessary to consult a doctor who is obliged to review treatment tactics, taking into account the dynamics of clinical indicators.
Can I use it for children?
According to the instructions, there are no restrictions on the use of this drug in children. However, it should be noted that the safety and effectiveness of the ointment was studied only in patients from two months of life (in the framework of clinical fundamental programs).
In people with impaired liver function, as well as elderly people, correction of the dosage regimen is not required.
After using the medication, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
Side effects
What side effects does Bactroban (nasal) cause? Reviews of doctors report that this medication can contribute to a burning sensation and itching at the site of application, as well as erythema, dry skin, edema and contact dermatitis.
It is extremely rare that Bactroban ointment causes allergic reactions to the skin, such as a rash and swelling.
Drug interaction
According to the instructions, Bactroban ointment is not recommended to be combined with other medicines intended for external use. This is associated with the risk of its dilution and, as a consequence, a decrease in its antibacterial activity.
Breastfeeding and Pregnancy
Currently, there is no information on how the drug in question affects the development of the fetus. Therefore, it can be used during pregnancy only if the likely benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risk to the baby.
Withdrawal of Bactroban along with breast milk is unlikely. However, use this medication during lactation should only be prescribed by a doctor.
Special recommendations
It is forbidden to apply ointment in the drainage area and on the mucous membranes.
Avoid contact with the drug in the eyes, otherwise they should be washed with water.
In case of allergic reactions or significant irritation of the skin, ointment treatment should be stopped, and the affected area should be thoroughly rinsed with water until the drug is completely removed. After this, you need to see a doctor who is required to prescribe alternative therapy.
As with other antibacterial agents, prolonged use of the ointment can lead to an increase in the number of insensitive bacteria.
Cost and analogues
How much is Bactroban ointment? The price of a 2% drug (15 g) is about 390 rubles. As for the nasal product, its cost is slightly higher (about 580 rubles per 3 g).
You can replace the medication in question with one of the following drugs: Bonderm, Supirocin, Mupirocin, Supirocin-B.
Patient Reviews
What do patients say about a drug like Bactroban? Reviews (this medication helps with acne very well) report that the drug in question is effective in any infectious skin disease. To achieve a therapeutic result, a small amount of the drug is required, which should be applied to the affected area for a short period of time.
Also, Bactroban ointment is used as a nasal agent for the treatment of staphylococcal infection in the nasal cavity. In this case, the drug is applied directly to the nasal passages and evenly distribute it with a finger or cotton swab.
As for the negative messages, they are extremely rare. Of those that are available, we can distinguish reviews related to the high cost of the drug. Although experts note that the price of the medication in question is fully consistent with its quality.