Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This medicine is not for long-term use.

This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your skin. If it does get on these areas, rinse well with water right away.

To help clear up your skin infection completely, keep using mupirocin for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms have disappeared. Do not miss any doses.

To use the nasal ointment

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Apply approximately 1/2 of the ointment from the single-use tube directly from the tube into one nostril. Then apply the remainder of the ointment directly into the other nostril.
  • Close your nostrils by pressing the sides of the nose together and then releasing them. Do this over and over again for approximately 1 minute. You may also press the sides of the nose together and gently massage the nose. These will help spread the medicine throughout the inside of the nostrils.
  • Throw away the tube after each use.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For nasal dosage form (ointment):
    • For Staphylococcus aureus ("staph") infections in the nose:
      • Adults and children 12 years of age and older—Apply approximately 1/2 of the ointment from a single-use tube squeezed into each nostril two times a day (morning and evening) for 5 days.
      • Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Do not refrigerate.

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