Bacitracin Zinc: Your Comprehensive Guide
What Is Bacitracin Zinc?
Bacitracin zinc is an effective, narrow-spectrum antibiotic peptide with an antibacterial spectrum similar to that of penicillin. It mainly treats Gram-positive cocci and bacilli.
It is a white or off-white powder with a characteristic odor and bitter taste. It is. It is a mixture of related cyclic peptides produced by organisms of the licheniformis group of Bacillus subtilis var Tracy.
These peptides disrupt Gram-positive bacteria by interfering with the cell wall and peptidoglycan synthesis.
Zinc bacitracin is one of our US FDA-approved pharmaceutical ingredients, along with Bacitracin and Polymyxin B Sulfate.
These ingredients are often combined to make ointments, sprays, and other products to help prevent infections from minor cuts and scrapes.
Bacitracin zinc also inhibits several Gram-negative bacteria, spirochetes, and actinomycetes with high efficiency, low toxicity, and low residue.
First things first, we must mention upfront that there are two types of powders:
1. high-potency type Pharm-Grade (Potency No Less Than 65 IU/MG);
2. Feed-grade or Industrial-Grade (Potency Less than 40 IU/MG, often made into premixes).
We supply only pharmaceutical-grade bacitracin and zinc APIs for the manufacture of human medicines.
What is Bacitracin Zinc Ointment Used For?
Bacitracin Zinc Ointment is an over-the-counter topical antibiotic primarily used as a first-aid treatment to help prevent infection in minor skin injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Here is a quick summary of its key uses and characteristics:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Use | First aid to prevent infection in minor skin wounds. |
| Common Injuries Treated | Minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. |
| Form & Availability | Topical ointment, available over-the-counter (OTC). |
| How It Works | Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, killing susceptible bacteria. |
| Key Target Bacteria | Primarily Gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus, Streptococcus). |
| Application | Apply 1-3 times daily to the clean, affected area; may cover with a bandage. |
| Critical Warning | Risk of allergic contact dermatitis; discontinue if rash/itching occurs. |
How It Works and What It Treats
Bacitracin zinc works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis, preventing susceptible bacteria from building their protective walls and ultimately causing them to die. It is primarily effective against a range of Gram-positive bacteria, including various Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.
It’s approved for short-term use on minor, superficial wounds. For deeper, serious, or already infected wounds (like animal bites, deep punctures, or major burns), you should consult a doctor, as stronger, systemic antibiotics or different wound care may be needed.
How to Use It Correctly
For safe and effective use, follow these steps based on the official drug labels:
Clean the Wound: Gently clean the affected area with mild soap and water and pat dry.
Apply a Small Amount: Use an amount of ointment equal to the surface area of a fingertip.
Frequency: Apply 1 to 3 times daily.
Cover if Needed: You may cover the area with a sterile bandage after application.
Do Not Overuse: Use only for minor injuries and do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor. Prolonged use increases the risk of side effects and does not improve healing.
Significant Safety Information and Side Effects
The most significant risk associated with bacitracin zinc is allergic contact dermatitis. In fact, it was named “contact allergen of the year” by the American Contact Dermatitis Society in 2003 due to the frequency of reactions.
What to Watch For: Signs include itching, redness, rash, hives, or swelling at the application site or on other parts of the body.
What to Do: If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the ointment immediately and wash the area gently. Consult a healthcare provider if the reaction is severe or bothersome.
While rare, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) involving difficulty breathing or swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat can occur. Seek emergency medical attention if these symptoms appear.
Why is Zinc Used in Bacitracin Ointment?
Zinc is not just an additive in Bacitracin ointment—it is an integral part of the drug molecule itself, forming a stable salt that significantly boosts the antibiotic’s effectiveness and stability.
Specifically, the zinc ion in Bacitracin Zinc has three key functions:
| Function of Zinc | Brief Explanation |
|---|---|
| Enhances Antimicrobial Activity | Acts as a necessary cofactor, bridging the antibiotic to its bacterial target for optimal action. |
| Stabilizes the Molecular Structure | Forms a stable complex with bacitracin, improving the shelf-life and consistency of the product. |
| Forms the Active “Zinc Salt” | Bacitracin is formulated as its zinc salt, the standard pharmaceutically active ingredient. |
The Detailed Molecular Mechanism
Bacitracin works by binding to a specific bacterial molecule, undecaprenyl pyrophosphate, a critical lipid carrier in the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall.
By sequestering this molecule, bacitracin halts cell wall synthesis, leading to bacterial death.
More importantly, bacitracin cannot perform this function effectively without a metal ion, such as zinc.
High-resolution structural studies show that the zinc ion acts as a central bridge:
It binds directly to the pyrophosphate group of the bacterial lipid target.
It is simultaneously chelated (tightly bound) by specific parts of the bacitracin A molecule, including amino acid residues such as glutamic acid and histidine.
This creates a stable, three-part “ternary complex” (antibiotic-zinc-lipid) that is extraordinarily effective at blocking the carrier lipid.
While bacitracin can bind other metals, zinc binds this target most potently and firmly, which is why it is chosen for clinical formulations.
Distinguishing Bacitracin from Its Zinc Salt
It’s essential to understand the difference between the base antibiotic and its final medicinal form:
Bacitracin (Base): The mixture of polypeptides produced by fermentation. In its pure form, it is less stable.
Bacitracin Zinc (Zinc Salt): The product is created by reacting bacitracin with a zinc salt under controlled conditions. This is the standardized, stable, and pharmaceutically active ingredient listed as the active component in all ointments, from simple first-aid tubes to complex ophthalmic preparations.
In summary, zinc transforms bacitracin from a simple peptide into a potent, stable, and reliable topical antibiotic by becoming an essential part of its functional structure.
Is Bacitracin Zinc Ointment Over the Counter?
Yes, bacitracin zinc ointment is available over the counter (OTC) in most countries, including the United States.
You can find it at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers without a prescription.
Its widespread availability makes it a convenient option for treating minor wounds at home.
However, while bacitracin zinc ointment is OTC, using it as directed is essential.
Overusing or misusing antibiotics, even topical ones, can lead to antibiotic resistance.
If you’re unsure whether bacitracin zinc is appropriate for your situation, consult a healthcare professional.
Is Bacitracin Zinc Safe for Dogs?
Many pet owners wonder if bacitracin zinc ointment is safe for their furry friends.
The short answer is yes, but with caution.
Bacitracin zinc ointment is generally safe for dogs when applied to minor cuts, scrapes, or wounds.
However, there are a few essential considerations to keep in mind:
1. Prevent Licking:
Dogs are prone to licking their wounds, which can lead to ingestion of the ointment.
Ingesting bacitracin zinc can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Consider using a cone or covering the treated area with a bandage to prevent this.
2. Allergic Reactions:
Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to bacitracin zinc.
Signs of an allergic reaction include redness, swelling, or itching at the application area.
If you notice these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and take your dog to a vet.
3. Consult Your Vet:
It’s best to consult your veterinarian before using bacitracin zinc ointment for deep wounds, severe burns, or infections.
Your vet can recommend the most appropriate treatment for your dog’s condition.
How Is Bacitracin Zinc API Produced?
#1. Fermentation
Fermentation process using Bacillus subtilis and B. licheniformis to obtain a bacitracin solution.
(Bacitracin solution is an extraction and separation solution of a Bacillus subtilis and a B-type Bacillus licheniformis fermentation broth with a potency of no less than 5000 u/ml and conductance of fewer than 2000 μs/cm).
#2. PH Adjustment
An alkaline solution is added to the bacitracin solution to adjust the pH to 8 to 11; an inorganic zinc salt is added, and an inorganic acid is added to adjust the pH between 5 and 7. The solution is stirred for 1 to 2 hours and then let stand for 5 to 10 hours.
(The alkaline solution can be either ammonia water or sodium hydroxide. The inorganic zinc salt comprises zinc oxide, chloride, and zinc sulfate. Inorganic acids are hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid.)
#3. Separation
It is then obtained by separation, drying, pulverization, sieving, and inspection.
The total content of bacitracin A should be more than 40.0%; the total amount of bacitracin A, B1, B2, and B3 should be greater than 70.0%; Potency should be no less than 65IU/MG.
What Are Common Bacitracin Zinc Dosages?
Its common dosage forms include:
Topical Ointment, Strength: 500IU/G [Each gram contains Bacitracin Zinc API (equal to 500 bacitracin units)]
Ophthalmic Ointment of 3.5 grams in tubes.
Each gram is equivalent to 500 bacitracin units, polymyxin B sulfate is equivalent to 10,000 polymyxin B units, and mineral oil is equivalent to white petrolatum.
10 Person First Aid Kit including Bacitracin zinc (400 [iU]/1g) + Acetaminophen (325 mg/1) + Acetylsalicylic acid (325 mg/1) + Benzalkonium chloride (0.13 g/100g) + Benzalkonium chloride (0.40 mL/100mL) + Benzocaine (6 mL/100mL) + Ethanol (60 mL/100mL) + Ibuprofen (200 mg/1) + Lidocaine (0.5 1/100g) + Neomycin sulfate (5 mg/1g) + Polymyxin B sulfate (5000 [iu]/1g) + Water (98.6 mL/100mL)
Soluble Powder (Bacitracin Zinc) is a mixture of bacitracin zinc and zinc proteinates.
It contains not less than 90.0 percent and not more than 120.0 percent of the labeled amount of bacitracin, having a bacitracin concentration that is nominally bacitracin.)
Ointment for eczema
Ointment with Polymyxin B Sulfate
Topical Aerosol with Polymyxin B Sulfate
Topical Powder with Polymyxin B Sulfate
Bacitracin Zinc vs Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is also used in many skin products, such as zinc bacitracin.
Some people even can’t help asking: Is bacitracin zinc the same as zinc oxide?
But what exactly is the main difference between those two?
Excluding their chemical property differences, Zinc Oxide is an inorganic chemical; Bacitracin zinc is an organic peptide.
They have different Cas numbers, molecular weights, etc.
Zinc oxide is mainly used to treat skin conditions, including dermatitis, itching due to eczema, diaper rash, and acne.
Bacitracin zinc is mainly used as an antibiotic for infections or wounds.
Below are the detailed introductions and comparisons of zinc oxide usage.
Zinc oxide is found in baby powder, barrier creams to treat diaper rashes, calamine cream, anti-dandruff shampoos, and antiseptic ointments.
It is also a component in tape (zinc oxide tape) used by athletes as a bandage to prevent soft tissue damage during workouts.
Zinc oxide can be used in ointments, creams, and lotions to protect against sunburn and other skin damage caused by ultraviolet light.
Zinc oxide blocks UVA (320–400 nm) and UVB (280–320 nm) rays of ultraviolet light to prevent sunburn.
It works as the broadest-spectrum UVA and UVB absorber.
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the other most common physical sunscreens, are considered nonirritating, nonallergenic, and non-comedogenic.
Meanwhile, bacitracin and zinc kill bacteria in wounds to promote quick healing.
However, the zinc oxide cost is only 1/50 of the bacitracin zinc price, if not less.
How To Ship and Store Bacitracin Zinc API?
#1. Shipping by Air:
First, it is one of the safest chemicals to be shipped by air.
It is not dangerous, flammable, or explosive.
We have the certificate of safe air transportation issued by DGM, SRICI, etc.
#2. Storages:
Though bacitracin is an antibiotic, the stability study found that dry pure bacitracin powder is stable at temperatures as high as 37°C but decomposes at 56 °C and 80 °C.
Aqueous solutions, adjusted to pH 5 to 7 with or without buffers, are stable for several months at refrigerator temperature but lose activity rapidly at room temperature.
Zinc bacitracin is even more stable than bacitracin.
That’s why we can ship it at room temperature.
Just make sure the temperature is not too high.
Also, seal it well to protect it from moisture and light during transportation.
When it has reached your warehouse, store it in a cool, dry, and temperature-stable environment.
Room temperature is acceptable for storage; there is no need to store it at 2~8° like other antibiotics.
- Bacitracin In wikipedia
- Bacitracin Zinc Topical from Drugs.com
- https://www.drugbank.ca/drugs/DB00626
- Triple antibiotic ointment in Wikipedia
- Stability of bacitracin from ScienceDirect
- BACITRACIN ZINC AND POLYMYXIN B SULFATE ointment from Dailymed
- Zinc Oxide from Wikipedia
- Bacitracin Zinc Purification Patent
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is intended for business-to-business communication within the pharmaceutical industry. It is not intended as medical advice. The manufacture, import, and use of API must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the relevant country or region.
This blog post is informational only and does not constitute medical advice.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment.
