Retapex 1%

Indications

Retapex is approved for use in adults and pediatric patients aged 9 months and older. It is intended for the topical treatment of impetigo caused by Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains only) or Streptococcus pyogenes. In adults, Retapex can be applied to an area of up to 100 cm², while in pediatric patients, it should not exceed 2% of the total body surface area. The safety of Retapex has not been established for children under 9 months. To minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance and preserve the efficacy of Retapex and other antibacterial medications, it should be used exclusively for treating or preventing infections confirmed or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria.

Always consult a registered healthcare professional before using any medication.

Pharmacology

Retapamulin functions as a selective inhibitor of bacterial protein synthesis, targeting a unique site on the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, distinguishing it from other antibiotic classes. This interaction involves ribosomal protein L3 and occurs near the P-site and peptidyl transferase center of the ribosome. By binding to this specific site, pleuromutilins inhibit peptidyl transfer, obstruct P-site interactions, and disrupt the normal assembly of active 50S ribosomal subunits. Retapamulin demonstrates bacteriostatic properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes, achieving its effects at the in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for these pathogens.

Dosage & Administration

For optimal results, apply a thin layer of Retapex to the affected area—up to 100 cm² in adults or 2% of the total body surface area in pediatric patients aged 9 months and older—twice daily for a duration of 5 days. If desired, the treated area can be covered with a sterile bandage or gauze dressing.

Always consult a registered healthcare professional before using any medication.

Interaction

The safety and efficacy of using Retapex concurrently with other topical products on the same skin area have not been studied.

Contraindications

Retapex is contraindicated for patients who have a known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients.

Side Effects

The most common adverse effect associated with Retapex is mild irritation at the application site, reported in less than 2% of patients.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Classified as Pregnancy Category B, the safety of Retapamulin during pregnancy has not been fully established. It is unclear whether Retapamulin is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering Retapamulin to nursing mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

• Local Irritation: If sensitization or severe local irritation occurs while using Retapex, discontinue its use immediately.
• Not for Systemic or Mucosal Use: Retapex is not intended for oral, intranasal, ophthalmic, or intravaginal administration.

Therapeutic Class

Topical Antibiotic Preparations

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.