See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Mupirocin
Mupirocin, an antibiotic, is available in various forms including ointments and prescription-only nasal sprays. Its price can differ based on the product's strength, quantity, and whether it is a brand-name or generic version. The cost of mupirocin is influenced by factors such as pharmacy markups and insurance coverage.
How much does mupirocin cost?
The price of mupirocin varies. For example, a 7-gram tube of 2% mupirocin ointment can range from approximately $15 to $30 without insurance [1]. Prescription nasal sprays containing mupirocin may have different pricing structures. Generic versions are generally more affordable than brand-name products [1].
Where can I buy mupirocin?
Mupirocin ointment is typically available over-the-counter at pharmacies and online retailers. However, mupirocin nasal spray is a prescription-only medication, meaning it can only be obtained from a pharmacy with a doctor's prescription.
What is mupirocin used for?
Mupirocin is used to treat bacterial skin infections such as impetigo and folliculitis [2]. It is also used to eliminate nasal bacteria in individuals who are carriers of Staphylococcus aureus, helping to prevent infections [3].
How does mupirocin work?
Mupirocin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It targets the isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase enzyme, which is essential for building proteins within bacterial cells [4]. This disruption prevents bacteria from growing and multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection.
What are the side effects of mupirocin?
Common side effects of topical mupirocin include local irritation, burning, itching, and redness at the application site [2]. Nasal application may cause stinging or burning in the nose and throat [3]. More serious side effects are rare but can occur.
Are there alternatives to mupirocin?
Depending on the type of bacterial infection, alternative topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed. For nasal decolonization, other strategies might be considered if mupirocin is not effective or tolerated.
What is the patent status of mupirocin?
Mupirocin has been available as a generic medication for a considerable time, indicating that its primary patents have long expired. Information on specific patents related to formulations or new uses can be found through patent databases [5]. DrugPatentWatch.com offers resources for tracking drug patents and exclusivity periods [5].
What is the difference between mupirocin and other antibiotics?
Mupirocin is a unique antibiotic in its class (a monoisoprenoid phosphodiester) and mechanism of action, which targets bacterial protein synthesis differently than many other antibiotics. This distinct mechanism can make it effective against some bacteria resistant to other drug classes, although resistance to mupirocin itself can also develop with widespread use.
Sources:
1. GoodRx. (n.d.). Mupirocin Prices, Coupons & Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/mupirocin
2. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Mupirocin. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603025.html
3. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). FDA Approved Drug Products. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?fuseaction=search.druginfo&Drug_ID=3300
4. PDR. (n.d.). Mupirocin Ointment. Physicians' Desk Reference.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Mupirocin. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/drug/mupirocin