The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.
Consumers and health professionals are advised that the shortage of Bactroban (mupirocin) 20 mg/g ointment tube has been resolved.
The sponsor, GlaxoSmithKline Australia, has advised that the manufacturing issue that resulted in the unavailability of the medicine has been addressed and that the registered product is now available through the normal supply chains.
The unapproved product listed below that was available as an alternative due to the shortage is no longer available under section 19A of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.
Update 2 - continuing medicine shortage
6 April 2017
Consumers and health professionals are advised that the medicine shortage for Bactroban (mupirocin) 20 mg/g ointment tubes has been extended until 3 May 2017.
To address this shortage, the TGA has granted approval to Medsurge to import and supply an alternative product under section 19A of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989.
The UK product Mupirocin 20 mg/g ointment tube can be ordered by pharmacies by contacting Medsurge by phone on 1300 788 261 or by email at sales@medsurge.com.au.
Please note, any adverse events involving Mupirocin 20 mg/g ointment should be reported to Medsurge or to the TGA.
Update - continuing medicine shortage
25 January 2017
Consumers and health professionals are advised that there is new information that updates the below medicine shortage alert for Bactroban (mupirocin) 20 mg/g ointment tubes.
The sponsor, GlaxoSmithKline Australia, has advised the TGA that this product is now expected to be available again after 31 January 2017 (please see information above for updated details).
Please note that previous arrangements for alternative products approved under section 19A of the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 are no longer in place.
Bactroban (mupirocin) 20 mg/g ointment tube
Medicine shortages
27 May 2016
Consumers and health professionals are advised that there is a shortage of Bactroban (mupirocin) 20 mg/g ointment tubes.
Bactroban 20 mg/g ointment is used for the topical treatment of mild impetigo.
The sponsor, GlaxoSmithKline Australia, has advised the TGA that the shortage is related to manufacturing issues and product is expected to be available again after 31 October 2016 (please see information above for updated details).
A medicine shortage notification has been published in the Medicine Shortages Information section - external site of the TGA website.
Information for consumers
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, talk to your health professional.
Information for health professionals
For information on the Medicine Shortages Information Initiative please contact the TGA via email at medicine.shortages@tga.gov.au or call 1800 020 653.
Reporting problems
Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medicines, vaccines or medical devices. Your report will contribute to the TGA's monitoring of these products.
The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medicine, vaccine or medical device.