Last reviewed · How we verify

Chlorhexidine, Mupirocin

University of Tennessee · FDA-approved active Small molecule

This combination of chlorhexidine and mupirocin works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes and inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis to prevent and treat skin infections.

This combination of chlorhexidine and mupirocin works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes and inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis to prevent and treat skin infections. Used for Skin and soft tissue infection prevention and treatment, Surgical site infection prophylaxis, Wound care and management.

At a glance

Generic nameChlorhexidine, Mupirocin
Also known asHibiclens, Bactroban
SponsorUniversity of Tennessee
Drug classTopical antimicrobial combination
TargetBacterial cell membrane (chlorhexidine); isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase (mupirocin)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaDermatology / Infection Prevention
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Chlorhexidine is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent that disrupts bacterial cell membranes and denatures proteins, while mupirocin inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, blocking protein synthesis. Together, they provide synergistic antimicrobial activity against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, making them effective for topical infection prevention and treatment.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

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

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: