Mupirocin
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Topical antibiotic for staphylococcal skin infections, MRSA colonization, and secondary bacterial skin disease in dogs.
Naturally derived topical antibiotic (mupirocin 2% ointment). Mechanism: inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase → prevents incorporation of isoleucine into bacterial proteins → bacteriostatic at low concentrations; bactericidal at high. Highly active against Staphylococcus (including MRSA) and Streptococcus. Unique mechanism; no cross-resistance with other antibiotics. Topical use only.
Key information
Topical antibacterial (MRSA active). For external use only. Do not use in eyes or on mucosal surfaces. Not for systemic infections.
How to Give this Medication
Topical ointment (2%): Apply topically to affected area; wear gloves during application. Apply thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily. Cover with sterile dressing if appropriate. Wash hands before and after application. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
Topical: mild burning, stinging, pruritis at application site (uncommon). Hypersensitivity (rare). Otic: should not be used near perforated TM. Systemic absorption minimal from intact skin. Polyethylene glycol vehicle: avoid in patients with renal impairment with large-area application.
Precautions
For animals
Topical only — not for injection or systemic use. Avoid use near eyes and mucous membranes. The polyethylene glycol vehicle can cause renal toxicity if absorbed in large amounts (caution in extensive wound application). Not approved for use in food-producing animals.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Topical antibiotic — avoid applying to your own skin (antibiotic resistance concern; avoid unnecessary exposure). Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
If excessive product was applied, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Contact your veterinarian if the animal shows any signs of irritation, lethargy, tremors, or other unusual behavior. Mupirocin is poorly absorbed topically — systemic effects are very unlikely. Contact veterinarian if signs develop.
Mupirocin dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MUPIROCIN 2% OINTMENT | — | Ointment | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)