Bactroban is a go‑to ointment for many skin infections, but dozens of other creams claim the same thing. Below you’ll find a no‑nonsense rundown of how Bactroban stacks up against the most common alternatives, so you can pick the right tube for your needs.
When building the comparison, the first thing to nail down is the central player. Bactroban is a topical antibiotic ointment whose active ingredient is mupirocin. First approved in the US in 1987, it’s been a staple for treating impetigo, folliculitis, and secondary infections of eczema in both adults and children.
The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) lists it as a Schedule4 medication, meaning you need a doctor’s script. A typical 5g tube costs about AU$25-30, but rebates via the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) can reduce out‑of‑pocket expense for eligible patients.
Mupirocin binds to bacterial isoleucyl‑tRNA synthetase, halting protein synthesis. This mechanism is unique among skin antibiotics, which limits cross‑resistance with other topical agents. It’s especially potent against Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin‑resistant strains (MRSA), and Streptococcus pyogenes.
Typical indications include:
For deeper infections or systemic involvement, oral antibiotics are recommended.
Below are the most common contenders you’ll see on pharmacy shelves or prescribed by GPs.
Fusidic acid is a steroid‑derived antibiotic that disrupts bacterial protein synthesis at a different site than mupirocin. It’s available over‑the‑counter as a 2% cream or ointment and costs around AU$8-12 for a 15g tube.
Retapamulin is a pleuromutilin antibiotic approved for uncomplicated skin infections. Prescription‑only, priced near AU$45 for a 5g tube, but it boasts a low resistance profile.
Bacitracin is a polypeptide antibiotic that interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis. Often paired with neomycin and polymyxin B in combo ointments; sold OTC for about AU$5 per tube.
Neomycin is an aminoglycoside that blocks protein production in bacteria. Frequently combined with bacitracin (e.g., in Polysporin) and uses similar low‑cost, OTC positioning.
Polysporin is a topical ointment that blends bacitracin and neomycin. Marketed for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns; a 15g tube runs about AU$7.
| Product | Active Ingredient | Prescription Status (AU) | Typical Cost (AU$) | Primary Spectrum | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bactroban 5g | Mupirocin 2% | Schedule4 (Prescription) | 25-30 | Gram‑positive (incl. MRSA), Streptococcus | Impetigo, MRSA‑suspected skin infection |
| Fusidic acid 2% cream | Fusidic acid | OTC | 8-12 (15g) | Staphylococcus, Streptococcus | Simple impetigo, minor folliculitis |
| Retapamulin 1% ointment | Retapamulin | Prescription | 45 (5g) | Gram‑positive, limited Gram‑negative | Uncomplicated surgical site infections, MRSA‑low risk |
| Bacitracin 500U/g ointment | Bacitracin | OTC | 5 (15g) | Gram‑positive (mainly Staph) | Minor cuts, abrasions |
| Neomycin 0.5% cream | Neomycin | OTC | 5 (15g) | Gram‑negative & some Gram‑positive | Broad‑spectrum for superficial wounds |
| Polysporin (bacitracin+neomycin) | Bacitracin+Neomycin | OTC | 7 (15g) | Mixed Gram‑positive/negative | Daily first‑aid kit |
Not every skin infection needs the most powerful drug. Here’s a quick decision tree you can run through at home (but always confirm with a clinician if you’re unsure):
All topical antibiotics can cause local irritation, itching, or contact dermatitis. Specific notes:
Always wash hands before and after application, and keep the tube capped to prevent contamination.
Prescription drugs like Bactroban and Retapamulin can be filled at community pharmacies or ordered through reputable online pharmacies that require a valid script. The PBS currently lists Bactroban under Section85 for eligible seniors, shaving a few dollars off the retail price.
OTC products (fusidic acid, bacitracin, neomycin, Polysporin) are stocked in major chains such as Chemist Warehouse, Priceline, and local independent pharmacies. Prices have stayed stable over the past year, but bulk packs may offer modest savings.
No. Bactroban targets bacteria only. For fungal skin infections you’ll need an antifungal like clotrimazole or terbinafine.
Fusidic acid works on many Staph strains, but MRSA often shows reduced susceptibility. If MRSA is confirmed, Bactroban is a safer bet.
Typical regimens advise applying a thin layer three times daily for up to 5days, or until the lesion heals - whichever comes first.
Yes. It’s approved for use in infants as young as 2months for impetigo, but always follow a pediatrician’s dosage instructions.
Topical mupirocin has minimal systemic absorption, so interactions are rare. However, avoid applying over large burns or open wounds where absorption could increase.
Armed with this side‑by‑side view, you can decide whether the premium price of Bactroban is worth it for your skin infection or whether a cheaper over‑the‑counter cream will do the trick.
Blair Robertshaw
October 3, 2025 AT 08:51If you reckon Bactroban is some miracle ointment, you’re DEFINATELY overselling it. The cheap OTC alternatives like fusidic acid cut the price in half and do the job for simple impetigo. Mupirocin’s strength only matters when you’re actually dealing with MRSA, which isn’t the everyday cut‑and‑scratch scenario. Besides, a ten‑day course of Bactroban can burn a hole in your wallet, so ask yourself if you really need that level of firepower. Bottom line: don’t let the pharma hype steer you into an unnecessary prescription.