Bacitracin
Bacitracin is a peptide antibacterial used in topical first-aid products. A skin ointment, an ophthalmic product, and the former injectable product have different regulatory and safety contexts.
At a glance
- Regulatory status
- The cited topical product is listed under US OTC monograph M004, not an individually approved NDA. This profile does not establish injectable availability.
- Research context
- Bacitracin is a peptide antibacterial used in topical first-aid products. A skin ointment, an ophthalmic product, and the former injectable product have different regulatory and safety contexts.
What this is
- Bacitracin is a peptide antibacterial used in topical first-aid products. A skin ointment, an ophthalmic product, and the former injectable product have different regulatory and safety contexts.
What this isn't
- A recommendation to use, prepare, combine, or administer a product
- Evidence that a related molecule or a differently formulated product has the same effects
Key terms
Bacitracin is a peptide antibacterial used in topical first-aid products. A skin ointment, an ophthalmic product, and the former injectable product have different regulatory and safety contexts.
Bacitracin binds a bacterial lipid carrier, undecaprenyl pyrophosphate, and prevents its recycling. That interrupts transport of building blocks needed to make the bacterial cell wall. This antibacterial mechanism is supported by biochemical experiments; it does not establish collagen stimulation or human tissue regeneration. Primary mechanism study.
Evidence limits
How to read the evidence
The trial concerned clean dermatologic wounds, not established infection or every injury type. An OTC monograph listing is not the same as FDA review of each individual product. The formulation, additional antibiotics, intended body site, and clinical reason for use determine which evidence applies. Product-specific scope.
Sources appraised 2026-10-28. Educational information; not medical advice. Study findings apply to the populations, preparations and outcomes described.
External sources and citations
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