What Is Bacitracin Zinc Ointment?

Bacitracin Zinc Ointment is often part of first aid treatment

While common occurrences like scrapes and bruises are not usually very serious, they do require a bit of treatment to provide comfort and to prevent infection. For all such instances, doctors often prescribe an antiseptic ointment. Bacitracin Zinc Ointment, though an antibiotic, is one such ointment. Its basis is a germ-killing formulation that you can use topically as well as for the eyes.

Contents

Any medication has a make-up that works towards a particular goal. Bacitracin zinc is a medication that you can put on minor cuts and burns as well any other skin-based wounds. The idea is to fight off infection that can settle in. The ointment contains measured amounts of Bacitracin Zinc and petroleum jelly.

Forms

Bacitracin zinc ointments are available as a salve for the eyes and for use as a topical treatment for skin problems. Bacitracin zinc falls into the category of an ophthalmic antibiotic as well as that of a topical antibiotic.

Uses

For best results with Bacitracin Zinc ointment for topical use, you will have to clean and completely dry the area on which you are going to use it. A very small amount of ointment, which when applied forms a thin layer, is more than enough. The use of more ointment does not mean a faster healing rate. You can wrap a bandage around the area. Do not let Bacitracin Zinc ointment come in contact with eyes.

To use Bacitracin Zinc ointment in the eyes, pull the bottom eyelid down so that the pink flesh is exposed and squeeze a little ointment into that area of your eye, then close your eyes for about two minutes.

Side Effects

Bacitracin Zinc Ointment does have a few side effects that sometimes manifest. It can cause allergic rashes. It can also cause your skin to burn and turn red. Only use Bacitracin Zinc ointment for the eyes or the skin under the supervision of a doctor. Violent allergic reactions can also result in anaphylactic shock. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these reactions occur. Your vision will be temporarily blurry after you use the ointment for the eyes.

Tips

Store the ointment in regulated room temperatures ranging from 15 degrees centigrade to 30 degrees centigrade. If you are on any other medication when your doctor prescribes this medication, you must let him know. This is an ointment best avoided during pregnancy.

References

• Medline Plus: Bacitracin zinc overdose
• Drug 3K: Bacitracin Zinc
• Kids Health: Bacitracin
• Unimax Supply.Com: Bacitracin Zinc Ointment