What is the brand name for Mupirocin?
The brand name for Mupirocin is Bactroban.
PTCE Top 200 · #171
Mupirocin
Bactroban
Mupirocin is the generic name for the brand-name drug Bactroban. It is a topical antibiotic used to treat impetigo, nasal MRSA. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Mupirocin ranks #171 and is one of the most frequently tested infectious disease medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Mupirocin |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Bactroban |
| Drug class | Topical antibiotic |
| Class group | Infectious Disease |
| Common use | impetigo, nasal MRSA |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Mupirocin used for?
Topical treatment of impetigo and other superficial skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria (product-specific).
What drug class is Mupirocin?
Mupirocin is a Topical antibiotic in the Infectious Disease group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Mupirocin
- arrow_rightBurning/stinging at application site
- arrow_rightItching
- arrow_rightRedness
- arrow_rightDry skin
- arrow_rightRash
- arrow_rightPain at application site
Major interactions
- arrow_rightNo clinically important systemic drug interactions expected with topical use
- arrow_rightConcurrent topical products may dilute effect or increase irritation (separate application if needed)
Is Mupirocin a controlled substance?
No. Mupirocin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Mupirocin (PTCE mnemonic)
BACTROban BANs BACTeria — MUPIRocin is topical (skin/nose). Impetigo (apply TID 5 days); nasal MRSA decolonization (BID 5 days); no systemic absorption.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Mupirocin's two jobs: impetigo cream and NASAL decolonization of MRSA — a topical-antibiotic specialization the exam likes to test by route.
Mupirocin FAQ
What is Mupirocin used for?
Mupirocin is used to treat impetigo, nasal MRSA. Topical treatment of impetigo and other superficial skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria (product-specific).
What drug class is Mupirocin?
Mupirocin is a Topical antibiotic (Infectious Disease group).
Is Mupirocin a controlled substance?
No. Mupirocin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Infectious Disease group
Drill Mupirocin the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).