Mupirocin
Pseudomonic acid A
Also known as: Bactroban · Pseudomonic acid A
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial skin infections (pyotraumatic dermatitis, intertrigo, callus pyoderma, acne) | Apply a thin layer of cream to infected areas | topical | q8h | Maximum 7 days | 🌍 EU |
- Bacterial skin infections (pyotraumatic dermatitis, intertrigo, callus pyoderma, acne): 10 minutes contact time is required for activity.
Cats
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial skin infections (including feline acne) | Apply a thin layer of cream to infected areas | topical | q8h | Maximum 7 days | 🌍 EU |
- Bacterial skin infections (including feline acne): 10 minutes contact time is required for activity.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic with a novel chemical structure unrelated to any other known class of antibacterial agents. It is primarily indicated for the management of resistant bacterial skin infections, especially those associated with Staphylococcus species (e.g., canine pyotraumatic dermatitis, intertrigo, callus pyoderma, and acne). Because of its unique mode of action, it lacks cross-resistance with other antibacterials.
Clinical Warning: Routine use of this agent cannot be advocated. In human medicine, mupirocin is strictly reserved for the eradication of MRSA within the nasal cavity, and low-level resistance is emerging. Use only if there are no alternative treatment options and do not use for longer than 7 days to limit the development of resistance.
Mechanism of action
Mupirocin blocks protein synthesis in bacteria by reversibly and specifically binding to and inhibiting bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase → prevents the incorporation of isoleucine into growing protein chains → halts bacterial growth and replication.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Patients with known renal impairment (due to potential systemic absorption of the polyethylene glycol vehicle in some ointment formulations)
- Deep puncture wounds or severe burns
Adverse effects
- Stinging sensation at the application site
- Local irritation or erythema
Precautions
Resistance Warning: Do not use for longer than 7 days to limit the development of resistance. Zoonotic/Safety Warning: Use impervious gloves for application to prevent human exposure and potential resistance development. Avoid contact with eyes. Avoid use if renal impairment is present.
Monitoring
- Resolution of clinical signs of skin infection
- Signs of local irritation or hypersensitivity at the application site
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life
Absorption
Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. Absorption may increase if applied to broken skin, open wounds, or mucous membranes.
Distribution
Remains primarily localized to the stratum corneum after topical application.
Metabolism
Any systemically absorbed mupirocin is rapidly metabolized to the inactive metabolite monic acid.
Elimination
Inactive metabolites are excreted primarily by the kidneys.
Overdose
Systemic toxicity from topical overdosage is highly unlikely due to minimal absorption and rapid metabolism of any absorbed drug. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Clinical Pearl: The primary concern with excessive application is local irritation or potential toxicity from the polyethylene glycol (PEG) base in patients with renal compromise.
Available products
Formulations
- 2% cream
- 2% ointment
Human-labeled
- Bactroban 2% cream
- Bactroban 2% ointment
Regulatory status
FDA approved for canine bacterial skin infections.
POM (Prescription Only Medicine). Strongly discouraged for routine use to preserve efficacy for human MRSA.
POM-V. Reserved for resistant infections.
No regulatory data for: 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature (below 25°C). Do not freeze.
Client information
Wear disposable, impervious gloves when applying this medication to your pet. Apply only a thin layer to the affected areas. Prevent your pet from licking the treated area for at least 10 minutes after application to ensure the medication has time to work.
Important: Do not use this medication for more than 7 days unless explicitly instructed by your veterinarian, as overuse can lead to highly resistant 'superbugs'. Wash your hands thoroughly after use.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.