Bacitracin

Uses of Bacitracin

Bacitracin is commonly used in the treatment of Bacterial Infections of the lungs, Bacterial Skin Infections, and Conjunctivitis

How Bacitracin Works

Bacitracin is a type of antibiotic. It works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis by preventing the transfer of mucopeptides into the growing cell walls and damages the bacterial plasma membrane. Hence, this destroys and prevents further the growth of the bacteria.

Side Effects of Bacitracin

Nausea, Vomiting, Skin rashes, Pruritus, Hypersensitivity reactions, Albuminuria, Nephrotoxicity

Warnings

Kidney High Risk

Bacitracin can cause nephrotoxicity hence is not recommended in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment of Bacitracin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Safe

It is safe to consume alcohol with Bacitracin. There is no known interaction of Bacitracin with alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Bacitracin injection is not indicated for the use in adults and in pregnant women. Topical use in pregnant women has limited evidence of toxicity. Bacitracin may be used with doctor's advice if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Driving Generally Safe

Bacitracin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

Bacitracin may be considered to be safe as no data mentioning adverse effects on the liver function.

Lactation Limited Data

Bacitracin injection is not indicated to be used in adults, hence it is not known if Bacitracin is safe for breastfeeding or not.

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).