 Using retapamulin ointment (Altabax)
Dear Patient,
Your health care provider has prescribed retapamulin ointment to treat your impetigo. This is a topical antibiotic used to treat specific bacterial infections. The brand name of this medication is Altabax.
How you'll use Altabax
You'll apply a thin layer of Altabax to the affected area twice a day for five days.
What to do if you miss a dose
If you miss a dose, apply the ointment as soon as you remember, and then return to your regular schedule. Don’t double up doses and don’t apply more than two times each day.
What to do about side effects
Notify your health care provider if you experience side effects to this medication.
Less common: application site irritation, headache, diarrhea, stuffy nose, nausea, fever, eczema.
What you must know about other medications
There are no known interactions with other medications, but you should tell all of your health care providers that you're taking this medication.
Special directions
- This medication is for topical use only. Don't swallow the ointment, and don't apply to your eyes, mouth, lips, inside your nose, or inside the female genital area.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the ointment, unless your hands are a target area of treatment.
- You may cover the treated area with a sterile bandage or gauze dressing. This might be especially helpful when the medication is applied on a small child who may touch or lick the area. The bandage will protect the affected site and prevent transfer of the ointment to other areas of the body.
Keep in mind
- It isn't known if this medication could affect an unborn baby. If you're pregnant or wish to become pregnant, discuss the use of this medication with your health care provider.
- It isn't known if this medication could affect a breastfed baby. If you're breastfeeding, discuss the use of this medication with your health care provider.
- Complete the 5-day course of therapy even if your symptoms improve.
- Notify your health care provider if there's no improvement in your symptoms within 3 to 4 days after starting to use Altabax.
- Report worsened irritation, redness, itching, burning, swelling, blistering, or oozing at the affected site.
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