From the Guidelines
Mupirocin is recommended to be applied twice daily for 5-10 days for nasal decolonization of MRSA, as stated in the guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America 1. The application of mupirocin for nasal decolonization of MRSA is a crucial step in preventing the spread of infection and reducing the risk of recurrence.
- The guidelines suggest that mupirocin should be applied twice daily for 5-10 days, with a small amount (about the size of a match head) applied to each nostril 1.
- This recommendation is based on the evidence that mupirocin is effective in reducing the carriage of MRSA in the nose and preventing subsequent infections 1.
- It is essential to note that mupirocin should be used in conjunction with other decolonization strategies, such as topical body decolonization regimens with a skin antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine) and dilute bleach baths, to achieve optimal results 1.
- The use of mupirocin for impetigo or small skin infections is also recommended, with application of a thin layer to the affected area three times daily, covering with a sterile bandage if desired 1.
- Mupirocin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, specifically targeting Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) and Streptococcus species, and is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects such as burning, stinging, or itching at the application site 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
A small amount of mupirocin ointment should be applied to the affected area three times daily. The recommended dose of Mupirocin (Bactroban) is a small amount applied three times daily to the affected area 2.
From the Research
Recommended Dose of Mupirocin (Bactroban)
The recommended dose of Mupirocin (Bactroban) can vary depending on the specific use and formulation.
- For topical use, Mupirocin 2% ointment is typically applied 2 or 3 times daily 3, 4, 5.
- For intranasal use, 2% calcium mupirocin is applied twice daily for 5 days (10 doses) 6.
- The efficacy and safety of Mupirocin 2% ointment have been demonstrated in the treatment of primary and secondary skin infections, with application 3 times daily for an average of 9 days 4.
- A new cream formulation of Mupirocin has also been developed and compared with oral and topical agents in experimental skin infections, with application 3 times daily for a further 3 days 7.
Key Findings
- Mupirocin 2% ointment has been shown to be effective in the treatment of primary and secondary skin infections, with cure or improvement in over 90% of patients 3, 4.
- Intranasal 2% calcium mupirocin has been shown to be effective in the eradication of nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, with elimination of S. aureus in over 95% of subjects 3.
- The 10-dose regimen of intranasal mupirocin is superior to any 6-dose regimen for decolonizing S. aureus from the anterior nares of patients and for maintaining the decolonized state for at least 4 weeks after therapy 6.