Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Bacitracin

Bacitracin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Bacitracin?

Bacitracin is a first-aid drug belonging to the antibiotic class of medicines. It helps prevent bacterial infections caused by minor cuts, burns, or scrapes on the skin. It hinders the growth of infectious bacteria, preventing infections.

Bacitracin ointment helps only to prevent bacterial infections. It does not affect viruses or fungal infections. It is available without a prescription, however, a doctor’s consultation will help treat your problem effectively.

What are the uses of Bacitracin?

Most times, bacteria enter exposed skin through cuts or grazes. On entering the  bacteria multiply and cause infections. Bacitracin ointment (for skin) is primarily used to prevent such minor skin infections.

After application, it prevents and stops bacteria from entering and spreading on the skin. Don’t apply it on animal bites, deep skin wounds, puncture wounds, or severe burns.

You can self-treat mild infections with Bacitracin Ointment. However, consult a medical expert before using it for severe skin injuries.

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    What are the side effects of Bacitracin?

    Bacitracin is an ointment to use on the skin. It can cause some usual side effects like:

    • Hives.
    • Itching.
    • Rashes.
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing.

    Bacitracin can also cause some other side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual problems after applying this medication. 

    It is an effective ointment but talk to your doctor if you don’t see any improvement in your symptoms after one week.

    What is Bacitracin

    Uses of Bacitracin

    Side effects of Bacitracin

    References

    1. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/Bacitracin-ophthalmic.html
    2. https://www.healthline.com/health/infection/Bacitracin-vs-neosporin#sources 
    3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327491#pros-and-cons 
    4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/neosporin-for-acne#_noHeaderPrefixedContent 

    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.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Bacitracin

    No, putting the Bacitracin ointment in your eye can lead to a medical emergency. It specifically treats bacterial skin infections. However, Bacitracin ophthalmic is an eye ointment, which cures bacterial infections of the eye. Consult an eye specialist before using the ointment for the eye.

    Both Neosporin and the Bacitracin ointment prevent minor skin infections. However, Bacitracin halts infection growth, whereas Neosporin not only prevents growth but also kills existing bacteria.

    Patients can be allergic to either of them. Your doctor will help you decide what's better for you based on your treatment needs.

    Yes, you can use Bacitracin ointment on your baby if he is two years or older. It is effective in preventing minor infections in babies, like scratches, cuts, etc. For younger infants, don't use it without medical advice. Talk to your doctor and follow all precautions before applying it to the skin.

    If your dog licks off Bacitracin from your skin, it's crucial to see the amount he licked and swallowed. If he has licked a little, the antibiotic present in it won't harm him. If eaten in significant quantities, like ingested a tube, the zinc can result in nausea, vomiting, anemia, etc. If you see any unusual symptoms, take him to a veterinarian immediately.

    When visiting your doctor for bacterial skin infections, inform them if you are pregnant or have pregnancy plans. The related studies were conducted only on animals and included no pregnant women. In the study, some gave birth to newborns with problems. Your doctor will prescribe a Bacitracin ointment during pregnancy only if the benefits exceed the risks associated with it.

    Bacitracin belongs to the polypeptide class of antibiotics. It prevents the bacteria from forming a cell wall that protects it. As a result, it dies. Polypeptide antibiotics are applied directly to the skin to avoid skin infections. It is effective in treating and preventing infections after a minor cut, burn, etc.

    Bacitracin ointment acts as a barrier between the skin and bacterial infections. It keeps all infections at bay by increasing the healing time of a wound. Minor wounds, cuts, burns, and scratches heal with this ointment within a week. Consult a doctor if you see no improvement.

    You can apply Bacitracin on minor wounds caused by small cuts or burns. Don't apply it on open or deep skin wounds. Your doctor will analyse the wound and suggest whether an ointment or stitches are required. Different injuries need different treatments; hence consult a specialist.

    Bacitracin ointment fights several bacteria and prevents skin infections. However, it might not be a feasible treatment for acne. Bacitracin is not effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria. Other topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic are effective in treating acne.

    Yes, the application of Bacitracin keeps the wound moist, which prevents and reduces scars. It does not directly reduce scars on the skin. You have to take care of the wound properly by washing it carefully, applying a bandage, etc.

    Getting a minor cut or burn is not a small deal. These minor injuries can turn into significant problems if infected. It is essential to take care of wounds properly.
    S.no Product Name Dosage Form
    1. Neosporin Antibiotic Powder Bacitracin 400iu+neomycin 3400iu+polymyxin b 5000iu Antibiotic Powder
    2. Neosporin H Bacitracin 400 units+hydrocortisone 10 mg+neomycin 3400 units+polymyxin b 5000 units Ointment
    3. Intasporin Bacitracin 250 iu+neomycin 5 mg+sulphacetamide 60 mg Powder
    4. Nocin L Bacitracin 400 units+lidocaine 40 mg+neomycin 3400 units+polymyxin b 5000 units Cream
    5. Nosramycin Bacitracin zinc 400iu+neomycin 3400iu+polymyxin b 5000iu Eye Ointment