Retapamulin topical
Generic name: retapamulin topical [ RE-te-PAM-ue-lin ]
Brand name: Altabax
Dosage form: topical ointment (1%)
Drug class:Topical antibiotics
What is retapamulin topical?
Retapamulin topical (for the skin) is an antibiotic that is used to treat an infection called impetigo (im-pe-TYE-go). Impetigo usually affects the nose, lips, or other areas of the face, but it may also affect other areas of the body.
Retapamulin may be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
Retapamulin topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 9 months old.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using retapamulin topical. Ask your doctor about any risk.
How should I use retapamulin topical?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Apply a thin layer of retapamulin topical to the affected area.
Wash your hands after applying this medicine, or after touching your skin lesions for any other reason. The bacteria that causes impetigo can infect any skin area that comes into contact with your lesions.
Take care not to wash the medicine off any skin on your hands that you are treating with this medicine.
You may cover the treated skin areas with a bandage or clean gauze after applying the medicine.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication.
Do not use retapamulin topical to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.
Do not share this medicine with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have. Each member of the household should be seen by a doctor if they start to show symptoms of impetigo.
Use the medicine for 5 days in a row. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 to 4 days.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of retapamulin topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical atten...
