Uses
This medication is used to prevent minor skin infections caused by small cuts, scrapes, or burns. Bacitracin works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antibiotics.
This antibiotic only prevents bacterial infections. It will not work for virus or fungus infections. Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
Do not use this product over large areas of the body. Do not use it for serious skin infections. Ask your doctor first before using this product for serious skin injuries (such as deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, serious burns). A different treatment may be necessary for these types of conditions. Consult your doctor for more information.
If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions section.)
How To Use
This medication is for use on the skin only. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Wash your hands before using. Clean and dry the affected area. Then gently apply a small amount of medication (no more than can fit on your finger tip) in a thin layer, usually 1 to 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. If you are using the spray form, shake the bottle well before each use. You may cover the area with a sterile bandage. Wash your hands after use.
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this occurs, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with water.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not apply large amounts of this medication, use it more often, or use it for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects may increase. Do not use this product for longer than 1 week unless directed by your doctor.
Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if your condition lasts after a few days, or if it gets worse, or if you develop a rash or an allergic reaction. (See Side Effects Section.) If you think you may have a serious medical problem, medical help right away.
Side Effects
This medication usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Rarely, use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in other types of skin infections (such as fungal or other bacterial infections). Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual skin symptoms or if your condition does not improve.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using bacitracin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to neomycin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature. Different forms of this medication may have different storage requirements. Read the package labeling or ask your pharmacist for the storage requirements for the product you are using. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
