Retapamulin topical

Retapamulin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria on the skin.

Retapamulin topical (for the skin) is used to treat an infection called impetigo (im-pe-TYE-go). Impetigo usually affects the nose, lips, or other areas of the face, but it may also affect other areas of the body.

Retapamulin may be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Apply a thin layer of retapamulin topical twice daily for at least 5 days, and longer if your doctor instructs you to. You may cover the treated skin areas with a bandage or clean gauze after applying the medicine.

Wash your hands after applying this medicine, or after touching your skin lesions for any other reason. The bacteria that causes impetigo can infect any skin area that comes into contact with your lesions.

Do not use retapamulin topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor. This medication will not be effective in treating many other types of skin infections.

Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have. Each member of the household should be seen by a doctor if they start to show symptoms of impetigo.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 to 4 days of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Impetigo is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, or razors with other people if you are infected with impetigo. Use a clean towel and washcloth each time you bathe to keep from reinfecting your own skin.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside your vagina. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with retapamulin topical unless your doctor tells you to.

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied retapamulin topical. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Retapamulin is used to treat a certain skin infection (impetigo) caused by bacteria. It is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria (Staphylococcus and Streptococcus) on the skin.

How to use Retapamulin Ointment

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and dry the affected area first. Then apply a small amount of ointment to the affected area, usually 2 times a day for 5 days or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands after applying unless you are treating an area on the hands.

Do not use this medication around the eyes, nose, mouth, or vaginal area, or on large areas of skin, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. You may cover the treated area with a bandage/gauze. This may help prevent your child from accidentally getting the medication in their eyes, nose, or mouth.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Continue to use it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection.

You should see some improvement (healed/dry sores, decreased redness) in 3 to 4 days. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 3 to 4 days.

Mild burning, stinging, or itching may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering/swelling/oozing skin.

Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new infection (e.g., fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice signs of a new infection (e.g., new/worsening sores, fever).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.