Topical mupirocin in the treatment of bacterial skin infections

J. Rumsfield, D. P. West, I. K. Aronson

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mupirocin is an investigational topical antibiotic used for treatment and prophylaxis of bacterial skin infections. Mupirocin differs from other antibiotics in its synthesis, structure, and mechanism of action. In vitro, mupirocin possesses antimicrobial activity against staphylococci, streptococci, Hemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Few studies comparing mupirocin to other topical antibiotics are available. Initial studies comparing mupirocin to inactive vehicle in the treatment of impetigo indicate an overall 92 percent pathogen eradication rate with active drug and 58 percent eradication rate with vehicle. Overall response to treatment of secondary skin infections was favorable in 91 percent of patients treated with mupirocin and 77 percent of those treated with vehicle. Although incidence is not greater than placebo, adverse effects have included pruritis, burning, dry skin, and erythema. Additional trials and clinical use should further help determine the role of mupirocin in the treatment of minor, primary, and secondary skin infections.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)943-948
Number of pages6
JournalDrug Intelligence and Clinical Pharmacy
Volume20
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - 1986

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics(all)
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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