Retapamulin was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in April 2007 for the treatment of bacterial skin infections such as impetigo.

In May 2007, retapamulin received approval in the EU from the European Medicines Agency for the same indication.

[citation needed] Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy against certain Gram-positive bacteria including MRSA.

[1] Retapamulin is indicated for the topical treatment of impetigo due to Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible only) or Streptococcus pyogenes.

[2] Retapamulin is an antibacterial agent, specifically a protein synthesis inhibitor.