Medicine

Retapamulin

रेटापामुलिन

Medically reviewed by Dr Rishikanth Shukla · 2026-08-04

What it is

Retapamulin is a topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections. It requires a prescription in India.

What it is used for

Retapamulin is used to treat impetigo, a skin infection caused by specific bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Impetigo due to Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible isolates only) or Streptococcus pyogenes

How it works

Retapamulin works by killing and stopping the growth of bacteria on the skin. It targets the bacteria directly, preventing them from multiplying and spreading.

How it is sold in India

In India Retapamulin comes as cream.

Common side effects

Most people experience mild side effects when using retapamulin. Common side effects include irritation at the application site, diarrhea, headache, pain at the application site, redness, and contact dermatitis. These side effects are usually mild and temporary.

See a doctor straight away if

If you experience severe local irritation, signs of superinfection, or if your symptoms do not improve after 3 to 4 days of treatment, see a doctor immediately. In case of an overdose, go to the nearest hospital immediately.

Who should not take it

Do not take retapamulin if you are allergic to retapamulin or any other medications. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Avoid using retapamulin if you are taking oral ketoconazole.

Questions people ask

Is it safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Consult your doctor before using retapamulin if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can I take it with my other medicines?

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What happens if I take too much?

In case of an overdose, go to the nearest hospital immediately.

Brand names

1 medicines sold in India contain Retapamulin.

Brands sold in India include Retarel. Whichever name is on the strip, the medicine inside is the one described on this page.

Where this comes from

We do not publish doses. How much to take depends on your age, weight and other conditions — ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This page is general information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for seeing a doctor. It carries no dosage and no prices.