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Mupirocin Ointment [Treatment]

US Department of Veterans Affairs · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Mupirocin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, preventing bacterial growth and reproduction.

Mupirocin inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, preventing protein synthesis and causing bacteriostatic activity against susceptible bacteria. Used for Impetigo, Infected skin lesions and minor skin infections, Nasal colonization with Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA).

At a glance

Generic nameMupirocin Ointment [Treatment]
Also known asBactroban ointment, Mupirocin 2% in Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Ointment
SponsorUS Department of Veterans Affairs
Drug classTopical antibiotic
TargetIsoleucyl-tRNA synthetase
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaInfectious Disease / Dermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic that selectively inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, an enzyme essential for bacterial protein synthesis. By blocking this enzyme, mupirocin prevents bacteria from synthesizing proteins necessary for survival and replication. This mechanism is bacteriostatic and effective against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria.

Approved indications

Common side effects

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