by Evan Filler |
Now that fall is in full swing, you and your children may be getting a few more scrapes and cuts playing outdoors and while preparing our yards for winter. Even with a band-aid, a cut might still become infected, so it is always a good idea to apply some form of an anti-bacterial medication. Accordingly, plenty of pharmaceutical companies produce topical ointments and creams to prevent infection, as well as speed up healing.
Belonging to the class of drugs known as antibiotics, Bacitracin is used to prevent infections in minor skin injuries such as scrapes, cuts and small burns. It works by killing the bacteria on the skin that cause infection and is extremely safe. In 2003, the American Contact Dermatitis Society voted it Allergen of the Year.
John T. Gooley first isolated Bacitracin in 1945 and named it after one of his patients, Tracey. Three years later, The Food and Drug Administration approved the drug.
Bacitracin is most commonly found in name brand medications like Neosporin, where it acts as one of three antibiotic agents. However, it can also be purchased in pure form with each gram of ointment containing 500 units of Bacitracin in a low-melting special base made from White Petrolatum and Mineral Oil. It is also commonly used as an aftercare antibiotic on tattoos, and is preferable to Neosporin because it has fewer ingredients, which lowers chances of an allergic reaction.
Using Bacitracin is quite simple. Just make sure to clean and dry the affected area, removing any dry crust. Then apply a thin film of the medication to the injured area of skin, usually 1 to 3 times daily until your wound is healed. However, if your doctor prescribes it, use exactly as directed. Use it daily to get the most benefit. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Although allergic reactions and other side effects are extremely rare, they still exist. Irritation, redness and itching may occur around the application site. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible. In some highly unusual cases, a person may have a very serious allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice these symptoms: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
