Product introduction
T-Bact Ointment is a topical antibiotic built around mupirocin, used to treat common bacterial skin infections such as impetigo and infected boils. Unlike some other skin ointments in its category, it does not contain a steroid, so it is purely aimed at clearing the bacterial cause of the infection rather than reducing inflammation. It's applied directly to the affected area of skin and is generally used for short courses of up to about ten days. Because it targets specific bacteria, it isn't effective against fungal infections or viral rashes, so it should be used for the kind of infection a doctor or pharmacist has actually identified.
Storage: Store below 25°C, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Uses of T-Bact Ointment
- Impetigo (crusted, red skin sores)
- Infected cuts, wounds and boils
- Cellulitis affecting the skin
- Infected hair follicles (folliculitis)
Benefits of T-Bact Ointment
Targets and clears common bacterial skin infections like impetigo and infected boils,Helps settle associated itching, pain and pus formation as the underlying infection resolves,Available without a prescription for straightforward, doctor- or pharmacist-guided use on minor infections
Side effects of T-Bact Ointment
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Mild burning sensation at the site of application
- Local irritation or stinging
- Occasional rash on the treated skin
- Most application-site reactions are temporary and settle on their own
How to use T-Bact Ointment
Clean and dry the affected area before applying,Gently massage a small amount of the ointment onto the affected skin, usually two to three times a day,Use for the number of days advised (commonly up to 10 days) and avoid contact with eyes, nose and mouth
How T-Bact Ointment works
Mupirocin works by blocking an enzyme that certain bacteria need to build essential proteins,Without this protein-building process, the bacteria can't grow or multiply, which allows the infection to clear,As the bacterial load drops, the associated redness, pain and pus formation typically improve as well
Substitutes for T-Bact Ointment
No other medicine with the same composition is listed in our catalogue yet. Message us on WhatsApp and our pharmacist will help you find a suitable alternative.
Safety advice
No known interaction between alcohol and T-Bact Ointment when used on the skin as directed.
Generally considered safe to use during pregnancy when a doctor has recommended it for a bacterial skin infection.
May be used while breastfeeding when advised by a doctor, avoiding application near the chest area.
Not known to affect alertness or driving ability, since it works locally on the skin.
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for kidney conditions with topical use, but inform your doctor of any kidney issues.
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for liver conditions with topical use, but inform your doctor of any liver issues.
Quick tips
- Complete the full recommended course even if the skin looks better within a few days
- Don't use it for fungal infections, viral rashes or on large areas of damaged skin without medical advice
- Avoid using it for longer than about 10 days at a stretch unless a doctor says otherwise
- Wash your hands before and after application to avoid spreading the infection
- If there's no improvement in a few days, check in with a doctor rather than continuing to self-treat
Fact box
| Chemical class | Medium-chain Fatty Acids |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | No |
| Therapeutic class | DERMA |
| Action class | Topical Bacterial Protein Synthesis Inhibitors |
Frequently asked questions
Is T-Bact Ointment available without a prescription?
Yes, it's generally available over the counter, though it's still best used based on a doctor's or pharmacist's assessment of the skin infection.
Does it work on fungal infections or viral rashes?
No, T-Bact is an antibiotic ointment aimed at bacterial infections only — it won't help with fungal infections or viral skin rashes.
How long can it be used for?
It's typically used for up to around 10 days; using it for longer than needed isn't recommended and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Can it be used on children?
It can be used in children when a doctor has prescribed or recommended it for a diagnosed bacterial skin infection.
Can it be applied to open wounds?
It may be used on small, superficial infected wounds under medical guidance, but it isn't meant for large areas of broken or damaged skin.