Mupirocin
| Evidence Level: L5 | Predicted Indications: 2 |
Table of Contents
Mupirocin: From Topical Antibacterial Ointment to Pleural Empyema
One-Sentence Summary
Mupirocin is a topical antibacterial ointment marketed in the US. The TxGNN model predicts it may be effective for Pleural Empyema, but there are currently 0 clinical trials and 0 publications supporting this direction. The prediction is purely model-derived.
Quick Overview
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Predicted New Indication | Pleural empyema |
| TxGNN Prediction Score | 99.49% |
| Evidence Level | L5 |
| US Market Status | ✓ Marketed |
| Number of NDAs | 20 |
| Recommended Decision | Hold |
Why is This Prediction Reasonable?
Detailed mechanism of action data is not available in the Evidence Pack. Based on known pharmacology, mupirocin inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase. It is active against Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) and streptococci, which are common causes of pleural empyema. In principle, an antibacterial with this spectrum could be relevant to a bacterial pleural infection.
However, this link is theoretical. Mupirocin is approved only for topical use and is rapidly hydrolyzed to inactive monic acid in the body. There is no systemic or intrapleural formulation, and no data on pleural penetration or safety. The original indication is also not recorded in the Evidence Pack, so the prediction cannot be cross-checked against known indications.
A second prediction, punctate epithelial keratoconjunctivitis (score 99.10%), has the same problem. Mupirocin might act on a staphylococcal component, but it has no antiviral activity, and the ointment (polyethylene glycol base) is not formulated or approved for ocular use. No trials or literature support it either.
Clinical Trial Evidence
Currently no related clinical trials registered.
Literature Evidence
Currently no related literature available.
US Market Information
The Evidence Pack contains no approved indication text for these authorizations, so that column is omitted. The 5 entries below are the main ones of 20 total.
| Authorization Number | Product Name | Dosage Form | Manufacturer |
|---|---|---|---|
| ANDA065170 | Mupirocin | Ointment | Proficient Rx LP |
| ANDA065123 | Mupirocin | Ointment | Bryant Ranch Prepack |
| ANDA065123 | Mupirocin | Ointment | Kesin Pharma Corporation |
| ANDA065123 | Mupirocin | Ointment | Bryant Ranch Prepack |
| ANDA065123 | Mupirocin | Ointment | A-S Medication Solutions |
Safety Considerations
Please refer to the package insert for safety information.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Decision: Hold
Rationale: The prediction has a high model score but no supporting trials or literature (L5). Mupirocin has no systemic or intrapleural formulation, so the route of administration is a major barrier to use in pleural empyema.
To proceed, the following is needed:
- Package insert warnings and contraindications (a blocking gap for safety screening)
- Mechanism of action data from DrugBank
- Route compatibility assessment (topical-only product versus the required intrapleural or systemic route)
- Pleural penetration and stability data
- Any preclinical or clinical evidence for pleural empyema or ocular use
This report is for research reference only and does not constitute medical advice. Repurposing candidates require clinical validation before any application.
Disclaimer
This content is for research purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical validation is required before any clinical application.