retapamulin (Altabax)

Tradename: Altabax Indications: - topical treatment of impetigo due to Streptococcus or Staphylococcus Contraindications: 1) not approved for MRSA 2) not for use in the nose Dosage: - apply BID for 5 days Ointment: 1%, in 5 gram, 10 gram & 15 gram tubes Adverse effects: 1) skin irritation (1.4%) 2) other reported adverse effect in adults using topical retapamulin: headache (2%), diarrhea (1.4%), nausea (1.2%), nasopharyngitis (1.2%) Drug interactions: - not been studied Mechanism of action: 1) in a new class of antibiotics called pleuromutilins 2) inhibits bacterial protein synthesis Notes: Cost: (2007) $41.02 for the 5 g tube $69.52 for the 10 g tube $68.60 for the 15 g tube

References

- Prescriber's Letter 14(6): 2007 New Drug: Neupro (Rotigotine Transdermal System) New Drug: Altabax (Retapamulin 1% Ointment) for Impetigo Detail-Document#: 230605 (subscription needed) http://www.prescribersletter.com