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Retapamulin: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Established / FDA-approved use Retapamulin ointment is indicated for the topical treatment of impetigo (up to 100 cm² total area in adults and more.

Forms:Ointment

About Retapamulin

Indications of Retapamulin

Established / FDA-approved use

Retapamulin ointment is indicated for the topical treatment of impetigo (up to 100 cm² total area in adults, or up to 2% of total body surface area in pediatric patients aged 9 months and older) caused by susceptible isolates of Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains only) or Streptococcus pyogenes.

Not indicated for

  • Deeper, extensive, or bullous skin infections requiring systemic antibiotic therapy.
  • Infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA); Retapamulin has not been shown to be effective against these strains.
  • Use on mucous membranes, in or near the eyes, or intraoral/intranasal/intravaginal use.

There are currently no well-established off-label uses of Retapamulin supported by major guidelines; its labeled indication is limited to superficial impetigo of limited extent.

Dosage & Administration of Retapamulin

Adults

Apply a thin layer of Retapamulin ointment to the affected area (up to a maximum of 100 cm² in total area) twice daily for 5 days.

Pediatric patients (9 months of age and older)

Apply a thin layer of Retapamulin ointment to the affected area (up to a maximum of 2% of total body surface area) twice daily for 5 days.

PopulationMaximum treatment areaFrequencyDuration
Adults100 cm²Twice daily5 days
Children ≥9 months2% of total body surface areaTwice daily5 days

Stewardship reminder

Take Retapamulin exactly as prescribed by your physician; do not stop, extend, skip doses, or share this medicine with others without medical advice. Completing the full 5-day course, even if the skin appears to improve sooner, helps ensure the infection is fully cleared and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Side Effects of Retapamulin

Retapamulin is generally well tolerated when used as directed. The most commonly reported adverse reaction is:

  • Application site irritation (reported in approximately 2% or fewer of patients) — usually mild.

Other reactions reported in fewer than 2% of patients include application site pruritus (itching), headache, and diarrhea. If severe local irritation, rash, or signs of allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, hives) occur, discontinue Retapamulin and seek medical attention.

Contraindications of Retapamulin

Retapamulin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Retapamulin or to any excipient in the ointment formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retapamulin

What is Retapamulin ointment used for?

Retapamulin ointment is a topical antibiotic used to treat impetigo, a superficial bacterial skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, in adults and children 9 months of age and older.

How long should I use Retapamulin?

Retapamulin is typically applied as a thin layer to the affected area twice daily for 5 days. Complete the full course even if your skin looks better sooner, unless your physician tells you otherwise, to make sure the infection is fully treated and to reduce the risk of resistance.

Can Retapamulin be used near the eyes or mouth?

No. Retapamulin is for external skin use only and should not be applied in or near the eyes, inside the mouth or nose, or on other mucous membranes such as the vagina.

Is Retapamulin safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Systemic absorption of Retapamulin after topical use is minimal, but it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the benefit outweighs any potential risk; a physician should be consulted. Breastfeeding is not expected to expose the infant to meaningful amounts of the drug, but direct application to the breast/nipple area should be avoided before nursing.

What should I do if my infection does not improve?

If there is no improvement within 3 to 5 days of starting Retapamulin, or if the infection worsens or spreads, contact your physician. This may indicate that the bacteria are resistant, the diagnosis needs to be reconsidered, or systemic (oral) antibiotic therapy is needed instead.

What are the common side effects of Retapamulin?

The most common side effect is mild irritation at the application site, occurring in about 2% or fewer of patients. Itching, headache, and diarrhea have also been reported in a small number of patients. Severe irritation or signs of an allergic reaction should prompt discontinuation and medical attention.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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