Bacitracin is an antibiotic drug to treat minor wounds on the skin. This drug is used to prevent the growth of bacteria that can cause infection in the wound.
Bacitracin belongs to the class of polypeptide antibiotics. This drug works by inhibiting the formation of bacterial cell walls. That way, the growth of bacteria can be stopped. This medicine should only be used according to a doctor's prescription.
Bacitracin trademark: Bacitracin – Polymyxin B, Enbatic, Liposin, NB Topical Ointment, Nebacetin, Scanderma Plus, Tigalin
What is Bacitracin
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Polypeptide antibiotics |
| Benefit | Prevents and treats bacterial infections on injured skin |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Bacitracin for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether bacitracin is absorbed into breast milk or not. For breastfeeding mothers, consult a doctor first before using this drug. |
| Drug form | Creams, ointments, powders |
Precautions Before Using Bacitracin
Follow your doctor's advice when taking treatment with bacitracin. Before using this drug, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Do not use bacitracin if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Do not use bacitracin on large, deep skin wounds. Immediately see a doctor if you experience these conditions.
- Please be careful while using bacitracin not to swallow it or get it in your mouth, nose or eyes, as this medication is only used on the outermost layer of the skin.
- Do not apply bacitracin to the groin and genital areas of children. Avoid using a diaper that is too tight on the child while using this medicine.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See a doctor immediately if an allergic reaction occurs after using bacitracin.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Bacitracin
The dose of bacitracin cream, ointment, or powder to prevent bacterial infection of the skin with minor wounds, both in adults and children, is 1-3 times a day by applying a thin layer to the injured skin area.
How to Use Bacitracincorrectly
Follow your doctor's advice and read the information on the bacitracin package before starting to use it.
Before using bacitracin cream, ointment, or powder, wash your hands with clean water and pat dry. Don't forget to clean and dry the area you want to treat.
Take and place bacitracin on your fingertips according to the dose recommended by your doctor. Ask the doctor, whether the area that is applied to the drug should be covered with a bandage or not. Don't forget to wash your hands after you're done applying the medicine.
Make sure that there is sufficient time between one dose and the next. Try to take bacitracin at the same time every day for maximum treatment.
If you forget to use bacitracin, it is recommended to use it immediately if the interval with the next schedule of use is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
If the wound does not improve after using bacitracin for 1 week, see a doctor immediately.
Store bacitracin at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep medicine out of reach of children.
Bacitracin Interactions with Other Drugs
Bacitracin can cause drug interactions when used with other medicines. The following are some of the interaction effects that can occur:
- Increased levels of anesthetic in the blood
- Increased risk of kidney problems if used with colistin, kanamycin, neomycin, polymyxin B, or streptomycin
Side Effects and Dangers of Bacitracin
If used according to the doctor's recommendations and the instructions for use on the packaging, bacitracin rarely causes side effects. However, in some conditions, the use of this drug can cause an allergic reaction to the drug which can be characterized by the appearance of an itchy rash on the skin or difficulty breathing. Immediately see a doctor if you experience these complaints.