Mupirocin Coupons & Prices

Looking for a mupirocin coupon? Mupirocin is a prescription topical antibiotic used for certain skin infections. The topical ointment and cream are available as low-cost generics (the Bactroban and Centany brands of these topical forms have been discontinued in the U.S.). Even so, the cash price for the same tube can vary widely from one pharmacy to the next, so it pays to compare. Rx.com checks prices at more than 60,000 pharmacies so you can find today's lowest price near you. Enter your ZIP above to see the current price and coupon at pharmacies close to you.

What is mupirocin and how does it work?

Mupirocin is a topical antibacterial derived from pseudomonic acid (it is also known as pseudomonic acid A). It works by binding to a bacterial enzyme called isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, which stops the bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow. It is FDA-approved as an ointment to treat impetigo caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, and as a cream to treat secondarily infected traumatic skin lesions such as small cuts, sutured wounds, and abrasions caused by those same bacteria.

A separate 2% nasal ointment (sold under the Bactroban Nasal brand) is approved to clear MRSA colonization from the nose in patients 12 and older and in healthcare workers, as part of a comprehensive infection-control program. Note that the branded Bactroban Nasal product was discontinued in the U.S. in 2018, so the nasal form may not always be available to fill. Doctors also commonly prescribe mupirocin off-label for conditions like folliculitis, minor bacterial skin infections, and MRSA decolonization protocols. Your prescriber will decide whether it's right for your situation.

How much does mupirocin cost without insurance?

Because the topical forms of mupirocin are available as generics, they're generally affordable compared with brand-name drugs. That said, generic doesn't automatically mean the same price everywhere. Cash prices for the identical tube can differ substantially between pharmacies, even ones just a few miles apart, which is exactly why comparing before you fill matters.

Rx.com compares mupirocin prices across more than 60,000 U.S. pharmacies and shows you a free coupon you can use whether or not you have insurance. Prices change often and are shown live, so enter your ZIP above to see today's price near you rather than relying on an out-of-date figure.

Mupirocin alternatives and related medications

Mupirocin is one of several topical treatments used for skin and minor wound infections. If you're comparing options your prescriber may consider, related medications include:

• Bactroban — the brand name for mupirocin; the topical generic you'd fill today is the same active ingredient.
• Retapamulin — another topical antibiotic used for impetigo.
• Fusidic acid — a topical antibiotic used for certain skin infections.
• Clindamycin — an antibiotic available in topical and oral forms.
• Neosporin — an over-the-counter triple-antibiotic ointment used for minor cuts and scrapes.

The right choice depends on the type of infection and the bacteria involved, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which fits your needs. You can compare prices on any of these at Rx.com.

Mupirocin safety and side effects

Mupirocin has no boxed warning. It is for external, topical use only and should be kept away from the eyes. Because the ointment contains polyethylene glycol (PEG), it shouldn't be used on large open wounds or where a lot of PEG could be absorbed into the body, particularly in people with moderate-to-severe kidney problems. For topical impetigo, treatment is usually limited to about 10 days, and the label advises checking with your prescriber if there's no response within 3 to 5 days. (The nasal course is shorter—about 5 days.) Prolonged or repeated use can allow non-susceptible organisms (including fungi) to overgrow and can encourage antibiotic resistance, so follow your prescriber's directions on how long to use it.

The most common side effects are local reactions at the application site, such as burning, stinging, itching, or rash. Stop using it and contact your provider if you develop sensitization, severe irritation, or a severe allergic reaction. Superinfection and rare cases of C. difficile-associated diarrhea have been reported. This information is educational and not a substitute for medical advice—follow your prescriber's instructions and ask your doctor or pharmacist about your specific situation.