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
pruritus, 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.