Supirocin-b Plus Ointment

SUPIROCIN-B PLUS OINTMENT is a combination medicine manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., used to treat various bacterial skin infections complicated by inflammation.

Name

• Brand Name: SUPIROCIN-B PLUS OINTMENT

Composition

SUPIROCIN-B PLUS OINTMENT contains two active ingredients:

• Mupirocin (2% w/w): An antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, thereby killing bacteria and preventing their growth.
• Beclomethasone Dipropionate (0.025% w/w): A corticosteroid that reduces redness, itching, and swelling by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the body that cause inflammation and allergies.

Uses

This ointment is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial skin infections, including:

• Impetigo (red sores on the face)
• Other bacterial skin infections where inflammation is present. It can also be used for conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis.

Dosage and Administration

SUPIROCIN-B PLUS OINTMENT is for external use only. It should be applied as a thin layer to the affected area of the skin as per the dosage and schedule prescribed by your doctor. It is recommended to apply it regularly, preferably at the same time each day. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth; rinse thoroughly with water if accidental contact occurs. Do not use in larger amounts, more frequently, or for a longer duration than directed. Complete the entire course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance and recurrence of infection.

Side Effects

Common side effects at the application site include:

• Burning sensation
• Irritation
• Itching
• Redness Less common or serious side effects can include thinning of the skin, increased risk of infection, weight gain, mood changes, and severe allergic reactions.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if you have a known allergy to Mupirocin, Beclomethasone, or any other components of the ointment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and advised by a doctor. Consult a healthcare provider before use if breastfeeding.
• Children: Not recommended for children under one year of age unless specifically advised by a doctor.
• General Warnings: Avoid applying to mucosal surfaces. Use with caution in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment due to polyethylene glycol absorption risk from open wounds. Inform your doctor if you have psoriasis, tuberculosis, or other underlying conditions.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about any other medications, especially other topical treatments, to avoid potential interactions.

Storage

Store SUPIROCIN-B PLUS OINTMENT below 25°C or 30°C. Keep it in a cool and dry place, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

What is Supirocin-B Plus Ointment used for?

Supirocin-B Plus Ointment is primarily used to treat bacterial skin infections, such as impetigo (characterized by red sores on the face). It also helps manage other infected inflammatory skin conditions like infected eczema, infected contact dermatitis, and secondarily infected psoriasis by reducing associated redness, itching, and swelling.

How does Supirocin-B Plus Ointment work?

This ointment is a combination medicine containing Mupirocin and Beclomethasone dipropionate. Mupirocin is an antibiotic that kills bacteria by disrupting their protein production, which prevents their growth and clears the infection. Beclomethasone dipropionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling by inhibiting the release of certain chemical messengers (prostaglandins) in the body.

What is the usual dosage for Supirocin-B Plus Ointment?

The ointment should be applied as a thin layer to the affected skin area, typically three times a day, or as directed by your doctor. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and duration, which usually does not exceed 10 days, to ensure effectiveness and prevent re-infection. Do not use larger amounts or apply more often or for a longer period than advised.

What are the possible side effects of Supirocin-B Plus Ointment?

Common side effects often occur at the application site and may include itching, pain, stinging, burning sensation, irritation, redness, and dryness. These reactions are usually mild and temporary. More serious but rare side effects can include an increased risk of infection, severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), muscle weakness, and psychosis. Prolonged use may lead to skin thinning, increased hair growth, or adrenal insufficiency. If side effects persist, worsen, or if you experience a severe allergic reaction, discontinue use and consult your doctor immediately.

Is Supirocin-B Plus Ointment safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: The use of Supirocin-B Plus Ointment is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and the potential benefits significantly outweigh the risks, as animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Limited human data is available, so it is essential to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: While limited human data suggests it may be safe if prescribed, it is generally not recommended for use during breastfeeding. If its use is deemed absolutely necessary, breastfeeding should be discontinued. Avoid applying the ointment to breast areas (especially the nipple) that may come into contact with an infant. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

Can Supirocin-B Plus Ointment be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, before using Supirocin-B Plus Ointment. Do not mix this ointment with other topical creams, lotions, or ointments, as this may reduce its effectiveness. Specific interactions have been noted with certain medications such as Amlodipine, Mifepristone, Warfarin, Ethinyl, Estradiol, Insulin, Ciprofloxacin, and the BCG vaccine. Using it with non-steroidal drugs like Ibuprofen may also cause problems. Prolonged use, application to large skin areas, under occlusive dressings, or on broken skin can increase systemic absorption and the risk of drug interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Supirocin-B Plus Ointment?

This ointment is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth; if accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Wash your hands before and after application, and ensure the affected area is clean and dry before applying. Do not cover the treated skin with airtight dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor. The ointment is not recommended for children under one year of age (or under two years for Supirocin cream) and should be used with caution and strict medical supervision in older children. Do not use this medicine if you have an allergy to any of its ingredients. It is not effective against fungal or viral skin infections, and corticosteroids in its composition could potentially worsen such conditions. Complete the entire prescribed course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance. Use with caution if you have a history of tuberculosis, electrolytic imbalance, gastrointestinal perforations, recent heart attack, ocular herpes infection, scleroderma, or threadworm infection.

What happens if a dose of Supirocin-B Plus Ointment is missed?

If you miss a dose, apply the ointment as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should Supirocin-B Plus Ointment be stored?

Store Supirocin-B Plus Ointment at room temperature, ideally between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Brief storage between 15-30°C (59-86°F) is permitted. Do not refrigerate. Keep the ointment away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and store it out of the reach of children and pets. Ensure the tube cover is closed immediately after use to prevent contamination.