Why is this medication prescribed

Altabax (retapamulin) is a topical antibiotic ointment prescribed to treat skin infections caused by certain bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. It is commonly used for:

• Impetigo: A highly contagious skin infection, particularly common in children, characterized by red sores that can burst and develop honey-colored crusts.
• Minor cuts, scrapes, or wounds: To prevent bacterial infections and promote healing.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Preparation: Clean the affected area gently with soap and water. Pat the area dry with a clean towel before applying the ointment.
• Application: Apply a thin layer of Altabax to the affected area of the skin. Use a clean finger, cotton swab, or gauze pad to apply the ointment, avoiding direct contact of the tube with the skin to prevent contamination.
• Frequency: Use the ointment twice daily (morning and evening) or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Covering the Area: The area can be left uncovered or covered with a sterile bandage or gauze if advised by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Contact with Eyes, Nose, or Mouth: Do not apply inside the eyes, mouth, or nose. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment, unless treating your hands.
• Duration of Use: Continue using the ointment for the full prescribed duration, usually up to 5 days, even if the infection seems to improve earlier.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up.

If symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Infected Cuts or Scrapes: If small cuts or abrasions become infected with bacteria sensitive to Retapamulin, Altabax may be used to help clear the infection.
• Minor Skin Infections: Small areas of folliculitis or minor localized skin infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow When Using Altabax:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to Retapamulin or other antibiotics, to avoid an allergic reaction.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, particularly severe skin conditions, or if you are immune-compromised.
• Avoid Large or Open Wounds: Do not apply Altabax to large areas of damaged or broken skin, as the medication may be absorbed into the bloodstream and could increase the risk of side effects.
• Avoid Contact with Eyes, Nose, and Mouth: Altabax is meant for external use only. If accidental contact occurs with these areas, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Use on Children: Altabax is typically safe for children aged 9 months and older. However, always use as directed by a healthcare provider, especially in younger children.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The effects of Altabax on an unborn baby or a nursing infant are not fully known.
• Drug Interactions: Altabax is not known to interact with most other medications since it is a topical treatment, but always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or supplements.
• Discontinue if Irritation Occurs: Stop using Altabax and contact your doctor if you experience severe irritation, allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, or swelling), or if the condition worsens.
• Complete the Full Course: Even if the symptoms improve early, complete the full course of treatment to prevent the infection from returning or worsening.

Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and consult them if you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms while using Alsuma Injection.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Altabax is a topical medication with no known dietary restrictions or interactions with food. You can continue with your normal diet unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Apply as Soon as Remembered: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
• Skip if Close to Next Dose: If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Avoid Doubling Up: Do not apply extra ointment to make up for a missed dose, as this does not enhance effectiveness and may increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

While Altabax is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. These side effects can range from mild to severe. Here’s a list of potential side effects:

Common Side Effects: These side effects are generally mild and often resolve on their own:

• Application Site Reactions: Redness, itching, or irritation at the site of application. Burning or stinging sensation.
• Dry Skin: Skin around the treated area may become dry or flaky.

Less Common Side Effects: These are less common but can occur:

• Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction causing a rash, swelling, or increased redness.
• Headache: Some users have reported mild headaches, though this is rare.

Severe Side Effects: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these severe reactions:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include rash, hives, severe itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe Skin Reactions: Blistering, peeling, or extensive skin irritation.
• Infection Worsening: Signs that the infection is not improving or worsening, such as spreading redness, increased pain, pus, or fever, indicate the need to contact your healthcare provider.

If mild side effects persist or worsen. If severe side effects occur, such as significant allergic reactions or skin reactions. If the infection does not improve after a few days of treatment or seems to worsen.

These side effects are not exhaustive, and individual reactions may vary. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Altabax (Generic Retapamulin):

• Storage:
  • Store Altabax at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Keep the ointment away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Do not freeze it.
  • Store in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
• Disposal:
  • Do not flush Altabax down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed by your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority.
  • Dispose of the ointment in a sealed container or bag, following local regulations for medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist about take-back programs for unused or expired medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Contact: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, contact emergency medical services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Signs of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, confusion, or seizures.
• What to Do: Provide as much information as possible to medical personnel, including the amount of medication taken and the time of the overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Check-Ups: Regularly follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and to manage any potential side effects.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid interactions that could affect the safety or effectiveness of Alsuma Injection.
• Dosage Adjustments: Only adjust the dosage based on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Do not make changes to your treatment plan without consulting them.
• Missed Doses: Since Alsuma Injection is used for acute migraine attacks, if you miss a dose or don’t use it during an attack, only use it as prescribed for subsequent attacks. Avoid using more than the recommended amount.
• Patient Information: Review all provided patient information, including the medication guide or patient leaflet, to understand how to use the medication correctly and to be aware of potential side effects.

If you have any specific questions or concerns about using Alsuma Injection, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.