Key takeaways
Mupirocin(Bactroban, Centany)and nystatin are both prescription topical medications used to treat skin infections, but they belong to different medication classes. Mupirocin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections like impetigo, while nystatin is an antifungal used to treat fungal skin infections, such as yeast infections. Mupirocin is available as a cream and ointment and is applied three times a day for up to 10 days. Nystatin comes in cream, ointment, and powder forms and is applied two to three times a day until the infection heals. Both medications come as a lower-cost generic. While mupirocin is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects like headaches and burning at the application site. Nystatin may cause burning, itching, and rash.
