Bacitracina
Bacitracina Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Bacitracina is a brand name. Its generic name is Bacitracin.
Bacitracina
Bacitracina is an antibiotic and medicated skin ointment used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It is most commonly found in a topical form, where it inhibits bacterial growth and prevents infections from forming. It is a polypeptide antibiotic made up of amino acids, and it is naturally found in certain bacteria, fungi, and soil organisms.
Uses For
Bacitracina is used primarily to prevent infection arising from cuts, lacerations, abrasions, and burns. It is commonly used as an antiseptic when applied topically, although less common internal uses for the drug includes treatment of some eye, ear, and urinary tract infections in some cases. It also can be used as a ointment to help reduce redness and inflammation associated with certain skin conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Bacitracina works by inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycans, which are essential components of bacterial cell walls. It does this by preventing the transpeptidation reaction that binds peptidoglycan together, ultimately hindering the growth of the bacterial cell wall and eventually killing the bacterial cells. The drug also sometimes works synergistically with other antibiotics that target different sites within the bacterial cell.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Bacitracina begins working immediately upon contact with the affected area. It typically starts to show effects within 24-48 hours of application, although complete resolution of the infection may take up to two weeks in some cases.
Absorption
Bacitracina is generally not absorbed systemically when applied topically to the skin, but some absorption can occur through damage or abraded skin. When taken orally, Bacitracina is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, although this route of administration is not recommended.
Route of Elimination
Bacitracina is generally eliminated unchanged from the body, and is primarily excreted in the urine for those who have taken it orally. For those who have applied the drug topically, the majority of the drug is eliminated by way of the skin, although some may be eliminated via the urine and feces.
Dosage
Bacitracina is available in topical ointments with a variety of strengths, ranging from 400 units per gram to 2500 units per gram. The most commonly used ointment is the 400-unit strength. For treating skin infections caused by minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, the recommended dosage is to apply a small amount of the ointment on the affected area 2 to 3 times a day.
Administration
When applied topically, Bacitracina should be applied directly to the affected area. For best results, it should be applied to clean, dry skin with a clean, dry cloth or cotton applicator. It is important to follow the instructions on the drug label for best results.
Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with topical use of Bacitracina are itching, burning, or stinging sensation at the application site. Rarely, more serious side effects can occur, including rash, hives, and difficulty breathing. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if any of these serious side effects occur.
Toxicity
Bacitracina is generally very safe when taken and applied as directed. Overdoses of the drug can cause serious toxicity, including thrombocytopenia, anemia, renal failure, and neurologic symptoms. If any of these symptoms are experienced after taking or applying Bacitracina, seek immediate medical attention.
Precaution
Before starting Bacitracina therapy, it is important to discuss any allergies or other medical conditions with your doctor. It is also important to use caution when applying the drug to avoid contact with the eyes, nostrils, or mouth. Bacitracina should not be applied to areas that are irritated, broken, or to an animal bite.
Interaction
Bacitracina has been known to interact with some medications. For instance, it can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so consult your doctor if taking them while using Bacitracina. Additionally, the drug has been associated with reduced ineffectiveness when taken with certain medications such as vancomycin, cefazolin, ampicillin, and streptomycin.
Disease Interaction
Bacitracina should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as certain kidney and liver diseases and immune system disorders. It is also important to discuss any other medical conditions, as certain conditions may increase the risk of side effects when taking Bacitracina.
Drug interaction
Bacitracina can interact with certain drugs, as mentioned previously. Additionally, it can potentially interact with supplements, herbal remedies, and other drugs that alter the pH of your body, such as antacids.
Food Interactions
Bacitracina has no known food interactions. It is safe to take with regular meals or snacks.
Pregnancy Use
Bacitracina is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, however it is important to consult with your doctor before use. In some cases, Bacitracina may be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Lactation Use
Bacitracina is generally considered safe to use while nursing, however it is important to consult with your doctor before use.
Acute Overdose
Acute overdose of Bacitracina is rare. However, if overdose is suspected, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose include loss of consciousness, extreme drowsiness, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
Contraindication
Bacitracina is contraindicated for those with known allergies to the drug or any of its ingredients. Additionally, it should not be used on those with kidney, liver, or immune system disorders. It is also important to consult with your doctor before starting therapy if you have any other medical conditions.
Use Direction
For topical use, Bacitracina should be applied directly to the affected area, or directed by your doctor. The recommended dosage for most uses is a small amount applied 2 to 3 times daily.
Storage Conditions
Bacitracina should be stored at room temperature, away from direct heat and light. Additionally, keep the container tight-fitting and out of reach of animals and children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution for Bacitracina is not available, as it is primarily used topically and is not absorbed systemically.
Half-Life
The half-life of Bacitarcin is not available, however it is a very short-acting drug and is not typically needed for long-term treatment of minor skin infections.
Clearance
The clearance of Bacitracina is not available as it is largely eliminated from the body unchanged.
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