Bacitracin is an antibiotic that is most commonly used as a topical ointment. Most ointments have about 500 units of bacitracin combined with petroleum jelly or mineral oil, reports Drugs.com. Bacitracin is commonly used to treat and prevent bacterial infections of the skin, such as minor burns, cuts or scrapes. It is also very effective in fighting against other bacteria, including the common streptococci and staphylococci. Many individuals who use products containing bacitracin have zero to mild side effects; however, the most common effects that have been reported are skin irritation, blurred vision and renal failure when used as an injection. It is important to consult a doctor when using this product in conjunction with other medicines.
Skin Irritation
One of the most common side effects of bacitracin is skin irritation. This side effect can range from mild to severe. Largely due to allergic reactions to antibiotics, patients may develop rashes, hives, redness, swelling, itching and burning sensations. Bacitracin should not be used for an extended period of time or to treat more serious skin conditions. According to Drugs.com, side effects can increase with prolonged use to treat systemic infections. The continued use of bacitracin may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, particularly fungi. In these cases, patients should seek medical attention immediately.
Changes in Vision
Change in vision is yet another common side effect of bacitracin. According to Drugs.com, some patients experience changes in eyesight, swelling of eyelids or eye pain while using this product. These side effects normally occur when using this product to treat conditions caused by ocular infections. Patients with deep-seated ocular infections should not use bacitracin, notes Drugs.com. Visual side effects can also be caused by allergic reaction to bacitracin or overuse of the product. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if any of these side effects occur.
Renal Failure
A more serious side effect caused by bacitracin is renal failure. Drugs.com states that prolonged administration of large doses of some of the antibiotics currently in clinical use have been linked to renal failure. This occurs when bacitracin is injected into the body. According to the RxList website, when bacitracin is used in parenteral or intramuscular therapy, it may cause renal failure due to tubular and glomerular necrosis. Therefore, bacitracin is used as an injection only in cases where it is evident that the infection is caused by bacteria. Its use should be restricted to infants with staphylococcal pneumonia and empyema when they are caused by organisms shown to be susceptible to bacitracin, according to RxList. It should be used only where adequate laboratory facilities are available and when constant supervision of the patient is possible.
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