GENERIC NAME: BACITRACIN - TOPICAL (bass-eh-TRAY-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Baciguent
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat or prevent a skin infection.
HOW TO USE: This medication is for topical use only. Clean and dry the affected area as directed. Then apply a small amount of the medication on the skin. A thin layer is all that is needed. Cover with a bandage if directed to do so. Do not use large amounts, apply this more often or use this for a longer period than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. Use carefully if applying to the face. Avoid contact in or around the eyes.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause burning, redness, or a rash. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses or infections, allergies (especially to antibiotics). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use, including: all skin products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: If the condition for which this was prescribed does not improve or becomes worse after a few days, notify your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not apply it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat. Check the expiration date on the tube and discard any expired medication.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Impetigo - Get information on impetigo causes (staph bacteria), types (bullous, non-bullous), symptoms (blisters), diagnosis and treatment (antibiotics) of this contagious skin infection.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows