Last reviewed · How we verify

Altabax (R)

St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Retapamulin is a bacterial protein synthesis inhibitor that binds to the bacterial ribosome to prevent bacterial growth.

Retapamulin is a bacterial protein synthesis inhibitor that binds to the bacterial ribosome to prevent bacterial growth. Used for Impetigo caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.

At a glance

Generic nameAltabax (R)
Also known asAltabax(R)ointment, Locoid lipocream (R)
SponsorSt. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center
Drug classPleuromutilin antibiotic
TargetBacterial 50S ribosomal subunit
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease / Dermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Retapamulin is a pleuromutilin antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. It is bacteriostatic, meaning it stops bacterial growth rather than directly killing bacteria. This mechanism makes it effective against gram-positive bacteria commonly responsible for skin infections.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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