What is Bacitracin?

Bacitracin is a prescription antibiotic that is used to relieve the effects of skin infections. Bacitracin may be used on its own or in combination with other drugs. Bacitracin belongs to the Antibacterials. Bacitracin works by preventing bacteria from developing.

Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!

Get A Second Opinion

Bacitracin Uses

Bacitracin is a topical antibiotic used to treat minor skin infections caused by small cuts, scrapes, or burns. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. It's important to note that Bacitracin is only effective against bacterial infections and will not work for viral or fungal infections. Overusing or misusing antibiotics can lead to reduced effectiveness.

Important Tips:

Do not use Bacitracin on large areas of the body or for severe skin infections.
Consult your doctor before using Bacitracin for deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
Always follow the package directions if you're self-treating.

How to Use Bacitracin Ointment

Bacitracin is intended for external use only. Here's how to apply it properly:

Preparation:

Wash your hands before application.
Clean and dry the affected area.

Application:

Apply a small amount of ointment (no more than the size of your fingertip) in a thin layer.
Use it 1 to 3 times a day, or as directed by your doctor.
If using a spray, shake the bottle well before use.

Post-Application:

Cover the wound with a sterile bandage.
Wash your hands again after applying the ointment.

Note: Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Consistency is Key:

Use Bacitracin daily at the same time to get the best results.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration of use (no more than one week).

Seek Medical Attention If:

Your condition persists or worsens after a few days.
You experience a rash or allergic reaction.

Bacitracin Side Effects

While Bacitracin is generally safe for minor skin infections, it can cause side effects. Watch out for:

Rash
Itching
Hives
Swelling
Severe dizziness
Trouble breathing

Precautions While Using Bacitracin

Before using Bacitracin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:

Are allergic to Bacitracin or similar antibiotics like neomycin.
Have any other allergies.
Have a history of specific medical conditions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Use Bacitracin during pregnancy only if prescribed by your doctor.
Consult your doctor before using Bacitracin while breastfeeding, as it's unclear if it passes into breast milk.

How Bacitracin Interacts with Other Medications

Taking Bacitracin with other medications or herbal products can alter the effects of both Bacitracin and the other substances, potentially leading to severe side effects or reduced effectiveness. To ensure your safety and the best possible care:

Inform Your Doctor and Pharmacist: Before starting Bacitracin, tell your healthcare providers about all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
Consult Before Changes: Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication while using Bacitracin without first consulting your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Bacitracin:

Take It as Soon as You Remember
Skip if It's Almost Time for the Next Dose
Do Not Double Up

Overdose

Using more Bacitracin than prescribed can lead to serious allergic reactions. If you suspect an overdose:

Seek Medical Help Immediately: Contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room.

Storage Instructions for Bacitracin

To store Bacitracin properly:

Keep Securely Closed: Store the ointment in the bottle it came in, tightly closed.
Keep Out of Reach of Children: Ensure it is stored where children cannot access it.
Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (do not store in the bathroom).

Specific Disposal Instructions

Do not flush Bacitracin down the toilet. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for the best disposal methods.

Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!

Book an Appointment

Bacitracin vs Neosporin

Bacitracin	Neosporin
Bacitracin is a brand-name drug that only uses bacitracin as an active ingredient.	Neosporin is the brand name for a drug that includes bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin b as active ingredients. Other Neosporin products are available, but their active ingredients are different.
Bacitracin's antibiotic inhibits bacterial growth	While Neosporin's antibiotics inhibit bacterial growth while still killing established bacteria.
Bacitracin is used to treat minor skin injuries only.	Neosporin treats more kinds of bacteria than Bacitracin does.

Citations

The Use of Bacitracin for Identifying Group A Haemolytic Streptococci Bacitracin: A New Antibiotic Produced by a Member of the B. subtilis Group

Book Doctor Appointment

Name*

Mobile Number*

I agree to the Medicover Privacy Policy

International Patient Services

Make an appointment just in few minutes - Call Us Now

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is bacitracin used for?

Bacitracin is indeed used to prevent infections from minor skin injuries like cuts, scrapes, and burns by inhibiting bacterial growth.

2. Can you use too much bacitracin?

Mentioning the potential side effects of using too much Bacitracin is valid. However, specifying that it's very safe without proper context might be misleading. Overuse can lead to allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

3. Can you put bacitracin on an open wound?

This provides practical advice on using Bacitracin or Polysporin on open wounds, which is generally correct.

4. Is bacitracin a steroid?

This refers to a combination product with steroids for eye inflammation. Bacitracin itself is not a steroid.

5. How does bacitracin work to kill bacteria?

This explains the mechanism of action of Bacitracin and Polymyxin B correctly, focusing on their effects on bacterial cell walls and membranes.

6. Which is better: Neosporin or Bacitracin?

However, stating that Bacitracin inhibits bacterial growth while Neosporin also kills established bacteria oversimplifies their differences.

7. Is bacitracin good for pimples?

The answer correctly states that Bacitracin is primarily used for bacterial infections, not for treating pimples unless bacterial infection is involved.

8. Does all bacitracin contain zinc?

Bacitracin itself does not contain zinc. There are formulations like Neosporin that include zinc along with other antibiotics.

9. Is it safe to put bacitracin in your nose?

This provides practical advice on using Bacitracin for nasal moisturization, which is generally accurate.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.