Bacitracin Ointment 14gm
It is used to avoid or treat skin infections.
Drug Class
Topical antibiotic
Pharmacologic Class
Polypeptide antibiotic
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Bacitracin ointment is an antibiotic medicine applied to the skin to help prevent minor cuts, scrapes, and burns from getting infected. It works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before use and make sure it is completely dry. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area and gently rub it in. You may cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing if needed.
Storage and Disposal
To maintain the medication's effectiveness, store it at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas exposed to heat. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before use and make sure it is completely dry. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area and gently rub it in. You may cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing if needed.
Storage and Disposal
To maintain the medication's effectiveness, store it at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas exposed to heat. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Clean the affected area gently before applying the ointment.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the ointment.
- Avoid touching the treated area unnecessarily.
- Do not use on deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns without consulting a doctor.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
minorSkinInfections:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (consult pediatrician)
Infant:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily (consult pediatrician for infants under 2 years)
Child:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily
Adolescent:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed due0 to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by interfering with the dephosphorylation of the lipid carrier molecule, undecaprenyl pyrophosphate, which is involved in the transport of peptidoglycan precursors across the bacterial cell membrane. This leads to the accumulation of undecaprenyl pyrophosphate and inhibition of cell wall formation, resulting in bactericidal activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption from intact or denuded skin.
Tmax:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (topical administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Unchanged:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Local antibacterial effect is immediate upon application.
PeakEffect:
Not well-defined for topical agents in terms of systemic effect.
DurationOfAction:
Maintained as long as the product remains on the skin and is reapplied as directed.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor is available to provide medical advice about side effects.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor is available to provide medical advice about side effects.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Increased redness or swelling
- Pain that worsens
- Pus or drainage from the wound
- Fever
- Rash, itching, or hives (signs of allergic reaction)
- No improvement in the wound after 7 days
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If a large area of your body needs to be treated with this medication.
To ensure safe use, it is crucial to discuss the following with your doctor and pharmacist:
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Any existing health problems you have.
This information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication, considering potential interactions with other drugs or health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If a large area of your body needs to be treated with this medication.
To ensure safe use, it is crucial to discuss the following with your doctor and pharmacist:
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
Any existing health problems you have.
This information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication, considering potential interactions with other drugs or health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the prescribed duration of use, as extending it beyond the recommended period may increase the risk of a secondary infection.
In case of accidental ingestion, this medication can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are currently breast-feeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication, both for you and your baby.
In case of accidental ingestion, this medication can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are currently breast-feeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication, both for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Unlikely with topical application due to minimal systemic absorption. Ingestion of large amounts could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset.
What to Do:
If ingested, seek medical attention. For topical overuse, wash off excess. For accidental ingestion, call a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Routine Monitoring
Signs of infection improvement (e.g., decreased redness, swelling, pus)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Resolution of symptoms
Action Threshold: If no improvement within 7 days or if infection worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Signs of allergic reaction or irritation (e.g., rash, itching, swelling)
Frequency: Daily
Target: Absence of new or worsening skin reactions
Action Threshold: Discontinue use immediately if signs of allergic reaction or irritation occur.
Symptom Monitoring
- Redness
- Swelling
- Pain
- Pus or drainage
- Fever (if infection spreads)
- Rash
- Itching
- Hives
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Topical bacitracin is generally considered low risk during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption. However, it is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks. Use only if clearly needed and under medical advice.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption, but caution advised.
Second Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption, but caution advised.
Third Trimester:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption, but caution advised.
Lactation
Topical bacitracin is considered low risk during breastfeeding (L3 - Moderately Safe) due to minimal systemic absorption. It is unlikely to be excreted in breast milk in clinically significant amounts. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Generally safe for topical use in children for minor skin infections. For infants under 2 years, consult a healthcare professional. Avoid prolonged use or application to large areas, especially in infants, due to potential for increased absorption through immature skin.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are typically required for geriatric patients. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions if applied to large areas of denuded skin, though systemic absorption is generally minimal.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Bacitracin is effective against many Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.
- It is often combined with other antibiotics (e.g., neomycin, polymyxin B) in triple antibiotic ointments for broader spectrum coverage.
- While generally safe, contact dermatitis (allergic reaction) to bacitracin can occur, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions.
- Not intended for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns; these require medical attention.
- Always clean the wound thoroughly before applying the ointment to maximize effectiveness and prevent further contamination.
Alternative Therapies
- Mupirocin (prescription topical antibiotic)
- Topical silver sulfadiazine (for burns)
- Topical antiseptics (e.g., povidone-iodine, chlorhexidine) for wound cleaning prior to dressing.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 14gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often Over-The-Counter (OTC), may not be covered by prescription insurance unless prescribed.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.