How to Write a Bactroban (Mupirocin) Order
Apply mupirocin 2% ointment to the affected area three times daily for 5-10 days, using a cotton swab or gauze pad, with optional gauze dressing coverage. 1
Dosing and Administration
Standard Topical Application
- Apply a small amount of mupirocin 2% ointment to affected skin lesions three times daily 1, 2
- Use a cotton swab or gauze pad for application 1
- Duration: 5-10 days maximum 1
- May cover treated area with gauze dressing if desired 1, 2
Clinical Indications by Infection Type
For impetigo and limited skin lesions:
- Mupirocin ointment applied to lesions twice to three times daily is appropriate for patients with a limited number of lesions 3
- This is particularly effective for minor skin infections such as impetigo and secondarily infected skin lesions (eczema, ulcers, lacerations) 3
For pediatric patients:
- Children with minor skin infections (impetigo) and secondarily infected lesions can use mupirocin 2% topical ointment 3
- Apply to lesions twice to three times daily 3
Nasal Decolonization (Different Formulation)
For recurrent S. aureus infections or MRSA decolonization:
- Use intranasal mupirocin twice daily for 5-10 days 3
- This is part of a decolonization strategy, often combined with chlorhexidine washes 3
- Note: Standard mupirocin ointment is NOT for intranasal, ophthalmic, or other mucosal use 1
Critical Prescribing Details
What NOT to Do
- Do not apply concurrently with any other lotions, creams, or ointments 1
- Not for intranasal, ophthalmic, or mucosal use (unless using specific intranasal formulation) 1
- Do not use beyond 10 days 1
Re-evaluation Timeline
- Re-evaluate patients within 3-5 days if no clinical response is observed 1, 2
- If infection persists or worsens, consider systemic antibiotics or alternative diagnosis 3
Sample Order Format
"Mupirocin 2% ointment, apply topically to affected area three times daily for 7-10 days. May cover with gauze dressing. Re-evaluate if no improvement in 3-5 days."
This order format follows FDA-approved dosing 1, 2 and aligns with IDSA guideline recommendations for superficial skin and soft tissue infections 3.