Brand Altabax Ointment

Retapamulin is used to treat a certain skin infection (impetigo) caused by bacteria. It is an antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria (Staphylococcus and Streptococcus) on the skin.

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and dry the affected area first. Then apply a small amount of ointment to the affected area, usually 2 times a day for 5 days or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands after applying unless you are treating an area on the hands. Do not use this medication around the eyes, nose, mouth, or vaginal area, or on large areas of skin, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. You may cover the treated area with a bandage/gauze. This may help prevent your child from accidentally getting the medication in their eyes, nose, or mouth. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Continue to use it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. You should see some improvement (healed/dry sores, decreased redness) in 3 to 4 days. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 3 to 4 days.

Before using retapamulin, tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell the doctor or pharmacist your medical history. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Mild burning, stinging, or itching may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering/swelling/oozing skin. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new infection (e.g., fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice signs of a new infection (e.g., new/worsening sores, fever). A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.