Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Ointment, External, as zinc [strength expressed as base]:
CareAll Bacitracin: 500 units/g (28 g)
Generic: 500 units/g (1 ea, 1 g, 14 g, 14.17 g, 14.2 g, 15 g, 28 g, 28.35 g, 28.4 g, 30 g, 113.4 g, 425 g, 453.6 g, 453.9 g)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by preventing transfer of mucopeptides into the growing cell wall
Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics
Absorption
Poor from mucous membranes and intact or denuded skin
Use: Labeled Indications
Topical infection prevention: Prevention of infection in minor cuts, scrapes, or burns.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to bacitracin or any component of the formulation
Dosage and Administration
Dosing: Adult
Prevention of infection: Topical: Apply 1 to 3 times daily.
Dosing: Geriatric
Refer to adult dosing.
Dosing: Pediatric
Prevention of infection: Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Topical: Apply small amount 1 to 3 times daily; duration of therapy >7 days is not recommended, unless directed by health care provider. Note: Do not use in the eyes or over large areas of the body.
Administration
Clean the affected area prior to use. Apply a small amount of product (an amount equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger); may cover with sterile bandage.
Storage
Topical ointment (OTC): Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
Drug Interactions
There are no known significant interactions.
Adverse Reactions
Postmarketing and/or case reports: Anaphylaxis (Elsner, 1990; Farley, 1995)
Warnings/Precautions
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- Allergic reaction: Stop use and consult health care provider if allergic reaction or rash develops.
- Anaphylaxis: Use with caution in patients who have been previously exposed to bacitracin; anaphylactic reactions have occurred on repeat exposure (Elsner, 1990; Farley, 1995).
Other warnings/precautions:
- Topical anti-infective (self-medication, OTC use): Use longer than 1 week is not recommended unless directed by prescriber. Do not use in eyes or over large areas of the body. Seek advice from health care provider prior to use for deep puncture wounds, bites, or serious burns, or if condition lasts longer than 1 week.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Considerations
Although large studies have not been conducted, absorption is limited following topical application; use during pregnancy has not been associated with an increased risk of adverse fetal events (Leachman, 2006; Murase, 2014).
Patient Education
What is this drug used for?
- It is used to avoid or treat skin infections.
Other side effects of this drug: Talk with your doctor right away if you have any of these signs of:
- A significant reaction like wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
