Bacitracin

Bacitracin is a mixture of related cyclic antibiotic, bacitracin doesn't work well orally. However, it is very effective topically. Its action is on gram positive cell walls.

Bacitracin is synthesised via the so-called nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs), which means that synthesis.

Mechanism of action

Bacitracin interferes with the dephosphorylation of the C₅₅-isoprenyl pyrophosphate, a molecule which carries the building blocks of the peptidoglycan bacterial cell wall outside of the inner membrane [1].

Clinical use

Bacitracin is used in human medicine and is "approved by the FDA for use in chickens and turkeys."^[2]

As bacitracin zinc salt, and in combination with other topical antibiotics (usually Polymyxin B. Bacitracin can also be bought in pure form for those with allergies.

It is also commonly used as an aftercare antibiotic on tattoos. It is preferred over Neosporin because of its fewer ingredients, which lowers chances of an allergic reaction.^[3]

In infants, it is sometimes administered intramuscularly for the treatment of pneumonias. This formulation is sold under the brand name Baciim®.

References