Can I use mupirocin ointment on an open wound?

Impetigo is one of the infectious conditions that bacterial strands cause. This may show up as red sores near the nose and mouth. Younger people stand a greater chance of getting it. Some adults have also witnessed this infection. Antibiotic drugs like bactroban or mupirocin are prescribed for the treatment of these infections. But, can I use mupirocin ointment on an open wound? It becomes essential to know more on this front.

Infections on skin – like impetigo – may occur on any part of your body. In almost all cases, infections tend to show up on facial parts. However, in some cases – it can affect your hands as well as legs. Such infections start as small-sized wounds called blisters. Once these wounds break, they reveal the moistened and reddish skin below. If left untreated, such red spots can develop grainy crusts on top. This is a clear sign of further progression of this skin problem.

Proper medical attention is needed for treating this condition. Mostly, a topical drug is administered to treat it. Those who leave it unattended may see a pus-type formation on the affected sites. Spots on skin can become bumpy, and the skin turns dark as well as thick. You are likely to witness spells of itchiness. You are however not advised to scratch these wounds as it may only aggravate these infections.

Can I use mupirocin ointment on an open wound?

Mupirocin is available as a branded formulation called bactroban. This med is commonly administered for treating skin conditions like impetigo. It is endowed with antibiotic / bactericidal capabilities to arrest growth of bacterial strands. You are advised to use it topically i.e., on epidermis of skin. You may only need a small amount of it. You are advised to use it three times per day.

Yes, you can use mupirocin on infected wounds and nicks. It is highly recommended to wash the affected site and apply the drug. It is a good practice to use it at the same timeslot for better outcomes. Some people may stop using this med once they see some initial results. But, this is not a safe thing to do. Never stop using this topical med after experiencing the first few traces of relief.

Keep using the ointment after sensing first signs of remedy. Those who discontinued saw relapse of skin conditions and infections. It is dangerous to apply the ointment inside the nose or on oral parts. It is equally unsafe to use it on open wounds and / or skin which is damaged. The med may provide needful relief in less than a week’s time. Users who do not see any form of relief – even after using it for a week – must speak to their caregiving team as quickly as possible.

How to safely use mupirocin?

This topical med can cause some undesired outcomes or counterproductive effects. It helps to know that your doctor has advised the use of mupirocin as its merits clearly outweigh the demerits. In most cases, users did not report of allergies or adverse effects. Though some side effects are quite common; these are burning sensation, stinging, irritation as well as itchiness.

On noticing acute spells of stinging, skin irritation or other discomforts, stop applying the ointment after speaking with the caregiver or pharmacist. As long term use of this drug can trigger fungal growth or yeast infections, always use mupirocin / bactroban according to the advice of your doctor.

In a few one-off cases users have experienced reactions like formation of rashes, persistent episodes of itchiness and inflammation of skin. In those cases, take clinical support on a top priority basis.

Those living in the US can dial 911; you can also call helpline of FDA. Those in Canada must rush to a poison management unit or call Health Canada. Lastly, to know more on mupirocin ointment uses, consult with your treating physician.

Disclaimer

Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.