Retabac

Indications

Retapamulin 1% ointment is used to treat impetigo, a common bacterial skin infection that causes crusted, honey coloured sores, and small infected cuts, grazes or wounds. It is used in adults and children aged 9 months and over, for small areas of skin.

How It Works

Retapamulin is an antibiotic of the pleuromutilin group. It stops bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes from making the proteins they need to grow, which allows the body to clear the infection.

Dosage and Administration

Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice a day for 5 days, or as prescribed. The treated area may be covered with a sterile bandage or gauze if wanted.

• Wash and dry the area and your hands before and after applying.
• Use on skin only. Do not use in the eyes, nose, mouth or inside the vagina.
• The total treated area should not be larger than about 100 square cm in adults (2% of body surface in children).

Interactions

Very little is absorbed through the skin, so interactions are unlikely. Do not apply other creams or ointments to the same area at the same time unless your doctor advises.

Contraindications

Allergy to Retapamulin or any ingredient of the ointment.

Side Effects

Irritation, itching, pain, redness or a burning feeling where it is applied may occur. Rarely, contact dermatitis (an allergic skin rash) develops.

Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe spreading rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Very little enters the body after use on the skin, but data in pregnancy are limited; use only if your doctor advises. During breastfeeding it may be used if needed, but do not apply to the breast area.

Precautions and Warnings

• See your doctor if there is no improvement after 3 to 4 days, or if the infection spreads or you develop fever.
• Not for deep infections, abscesses or infections caused by MRSA (a resistant type of staph).
• Stop using if severe irritation or allergy develops.
• Prolonged use may lead to growth of resistant germs or fungi.

Overdose

Overdose on the skin is unlikely. If swallowed, contact a doctor for advice.

Therapeutic Class

Topical antibacterial (pleuromutilin antibiotic).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.