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.)
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.
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.
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 breastfeeding.
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.
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
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.
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.