Indications
- Preventing infection in minor cuts, scrapes, grazes and small burns.
- Treating minor bacterial skin infections such as impetigo and infected wounds.
It is usually combined with Neomycin Sulphate (and sometimes Polymyxin B) in ointments and dusting powders, so that more types of bacteria are covered.
How It Works
Bacitracin is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from building their cell walls, mainly acting on bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus that commonly infect the skin. Neomycin, when included, works on other types of bacteria.
Dosage and Administration
Clean the area gently and dry it. Apply a thin layer of ointment, or sprinkle the powder, on the affected area 1 to 3 times a day. It may be covered with a clean dressing. Do not use for more than 7 days unless a doctor advises it. Wash your hands after use. For use on the skin only.
Interactions
Very little is absorbed from small areas of skin. When products containing Neomycin are used on large areas or badly damaged skin, more can be absorbed and add to the risk of kidney and hearing damage from medicines such as Gentamicin, Amikacin or strong diuretics such as Furosemide.
Contraindications
- Allergy to bacitracin, neomycin or other aminoglycoside antibiotics, or any ingredient of the product.
- Use in the eyes, unless it is a product made for the eyes.
Side Effects
Uncommon: redness, itching, burning or rash where it is applied, which may be an allergy to the medicine.
Stop using it and get urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips or throat, widespread hives or difficulty breathing. See a doctor if the infection is getting worse (fever, spreading redness, more pain or pus), or, after use on large areas, if you notice ringing in the ears, hearing loss or passing less urine.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use on small areas is generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding; avoid large areas and long use. When breastfeeding, do not apply it to the nipple, or clean it off well before feeding.
Precautions and Warnings
See a doctor instead of self-treating for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, serious burns or large areas of broken skin. Avoid use on large areas or for long periods, especially in babies and people with kidney disease. Long use can lead to resistant infections or fungal infections. Stop if a rash or itching develops.
Overdose
Using too much on the skin is unlikely to cause harm; wipe off the excess. Swallowing a small amount is unlikely to be harmful, but seek medical advice, especially for a child.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antibiotic (polypeptide).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.