Neomycin Sulfate + Bacitracin Zinc
Indications
This is indicated in the treatment of topical bacterial infections. This is particularly effective in atopic, contact stasis and infections, eczematoid dermatitis, neurodermatitis, eczema, anogenital pruritus. It may also be useful as an adjunct in certain pyodermas, such as impetigo, during specific systemic antibiotic therapy for these infections.
Pharmacology
Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and is active against many gram-positive bacteria (e.g. staphylococci, streptococci, corynebacteria and Clostridia) and some gram-negative species (e.g. Neisseria and Haemophilus influenzae). They are often found in combinations in topical preparations as broad spectrum antibacterial agents.
Neomycin, an aminoglyoside with antimicrobial spectrum similar to gentamicin, binds to the 30S subunits of the bacterial ribosome, inhibiting protein synthesis and thereby disrupting DNA synthesis. It is active against many gram negative aerobes and against some strains of staphylococci.
Dosage And Administration
Ointment: Before use, the area for application should be cleaned gently. Derbis such as pus or crusts should be removed from the affected area. Apply two to three times daily to the affected skin area.
Dusting Powder: Antibiotic powder is a non- sterile dusting powder and used for superficial skin infections. A light dusting of the powder to be applied to the affected skin area upto 4 times daily.
Interaction
Bacitracin Zinc: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity when used with other nephrotoxic drugs. May enhance the action of neuromuscular-blocking agents.
Neomycin Sulphate: Additive nephrotoxic and neurotoxic effect with other aminoglycosides, bacitracin, cisplatin, vancomycin, amphotericin B, polymyxin B, colistin and viomycin. Enhanced toxicity with potent diuretics. May impair the absorption of other drugs. May enhance the effect of acarbose. May enhance the effect of non-depolarising muscle relaxants. May antagonise the parasympathomimetic effect of neostigmine and pyridostigmine. May increase the risk of hypocalcaemia in patients receiving bisphosphonates. May alter INR when givenwithanticoagulants. May inactivate oral typhoid vaccine.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any of its components.
Side Effects
This preparation is usually well tolerated. In rare cases, allergic reactions may be occurred.
Pregnancy And Lactation
The safe use of this preparation during pregnancy & lactation has not been established. Therefore it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Precautions And Warnings
Bacitracin & Neomycin antibiotic powder should not be used to large open wounds or to severely injured skin or on areas that exude large volumes of fluid as hard crusts may form. Since this skin ointment contains Neomycin, it should not be used for the treatment of otitis external when the eardrum is perforated because of risk of ototoxicity.
Patients considering self-medication with a topical anti-infective for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns should be advised to first consult a physician. Patients using the preparations for the prevention of infection in minor skin injuries (e.g., cuts, scrapes, burns) should be advised to discontinue the topical anti-infective preparation and consult a physician if the condition persists or worsens; it should not be used for longer than 1 week unless directed by a physician.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic and Topical antibacterial products.
Use in special populations
Children and Infants: This ointment is suitable for use in children at the same dose as adults, but the dose should be reduced in infants. This ointment is not recommended for use in neonates.
Storage Conditions
Keep all medicines out of reach of children. Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.