Mupirocin is an antibiotic that’s usually used to prevent infection after surgery. This drug comes in different forms, including gels, solutions, and ointments. But what about buying mupirocin ointment over the counter?
Keep reading to find out more about this treatment and whether you can buy mupirocin ointment over the counter or not.
Table of Contents
What is Mupirocin?
Mupirocin is an antibiotic that belongs to the group of drugs known as topical broad-spectrum antimicrobials. These drugs are used to treat infections caused by bacteria.
They’re also used to prevent infections after surgery or in people who are
immunocompromised. Although mupirocin is an antibiotic, it’s not used to treat infections such as an ear infection that is caused by bacteria.
Instead, it’s used to prevent infections by killing bacteria on the skin. In particular, mupirocin is used to treat the following conditions:
- Bacterial impetigo (an infection of the skin) caused by Staphylococcus aureus
- Bacterial scalded skin syndrome caused by
- Streptococcus pyogenes
- Bacterial methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections
- Bacterial impetigo caused by Streptococcus pyogenes
- Acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections
- Bacterial folliculitis
- Bacterial paronychia (infection of a fingernail or toenail)
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
- Bacterial keratitis (inflammation of the cornea of the eye)
Mupirocin is also used to prevent infection in people who have been in contact with someone infected with S. aureus and are at risk of acquiring the infection.
How Does Mupirocin Work?
Mupirocin works by blocking the bacteria’s ability to make protein. Without the ability to make protein, the bacteria cannot grow or survive. Mupirocin works by killing the bacteria on the tissue surface that are responsible for causing skin infections. Mupirocin does not work for infections caused by viruses, such as the common cold or flu.
Can I Buy Mupirocin Ointment Over the Counter?
No, mupirocin ointment is only available by prescription. If you want to use mupirocin to prevent an infection, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription. You can buy mupirocin ointment online if you have a valid prescription.
Side Effects of Mupirocin
Some people who use mupirocin ointment may experience mild side effects, such as burning and itching. You should stop using the ointment and see your doctor if you experience a rash, fever, or swelling of your face. Although mupirocin is generally safe to use, you should still be cautious, as it may have some side effects.
Is Mupirocin an Over-the-Counter Drug?
No, mupirocin is not an over-the-counter drug. It is available only by prescription.
However, other topical antibiotics that are similar to mupirocin are available over the counter. For example, you can buy clindamycin ointment over the counter to treat acne and rosacea.
Should you buy mupirocin ointment over the counter?
It is a good idea to talk to your doctor before buying mupirocin ointment over the counter. Your doctor can help you determine whether this treatment is right for you and help you avoid side effects.
Where to buy mupirocin ointment?
You can buy mupirocin ointment online or at your local pharmacy.
Conclusion
Mupirocin is an antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial skin infections. You can only buy mupirocin ointment by prescription. If you want to use mupirocin to treat a skin infection, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription.
Mupirocin is not an over-the-counter drug. It is available only by prescription. However, other topical antibiotics that are similar to mupirocin are available over the counter. For example, you can buy clindamycin ointment over the counter to treat acne and rosacea.
