BACITRACIN Meaning and
Definition
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Bacitracin is defined as a broad-spectrum antibiotic medication derived from the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. It belongs to the class of drugs called polypeptide antibiotics. Bacitracin is primarily used topically and is available in various forms such as ointments, creams, and powders.
This antibiotic works by interfering with the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. It inhibits the formation of peptidoglycan, a crucial component of the cell wall, through blocking the action of the enzyme responsible for its production. By compromising the integrity of the bacterial cell wall, bacitracin prevents the growth and replication of susceptible bacteria.
Bacitracin is commonly used to treat various skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including impetigo, infected dermatitis, and minor wounds. It is also utilized as a prophylactic agent to prevent infections in burns, cuts, or surgical incisions. However, it is important to note that bacitracin is not effective against systemic infections and should not be ingested or applied to the eyes or deep wounds without medical supervision.
Although bacitracin is generally considered safe when used as directed, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling may occur in some individuals. Additionally, prolonged or excessive use of bacitracin can lead to resistant bacterial strains, reducing the drug's efficacy. Thus, it is recommended to use bacitracin according to the prescribed dosage and for the specified duration to minimize the risk of adverse effects and promote successful treatment.
Common Misspellings for BACITRACIN
- vacitracin
- nacitracin
- hacitracin
- gacitracin
- bzcitracin
- bscitracin
- bwcitracin
- bqcitracin
- baxitracin
- bavitracin
- bafitracin
- baditracin
- bacutracin
- bacjtracin
- backtracin
- bacotracin
- bac9tracin
- bac8tracin
- bacirracin
- Bacitracinum
- Bacitazin
- Bactitracin
Etymology of BACITRACIN
The word "bacitracin" comes from the combination of two elements: "Baci-" and "-tracin".
The initial part "Baci-" refers to the bacterium Bacillus subtilis, which was the source of the original discovery of the compound. Bacillus subtilis is a type of bacterium commonly found in soil and is known for its production of several antimicrobial substances.
The latter part "-tracin" is a common suffix used in the naming of antibiotics. It comes from the chemical substance tricin, which has antibacterial properties.
Therefore, "bacitracin" can be understood as a combination of "Bacillus subtilis" and "-tracin", indicating that the compound is derived from Bacillus subtilis and possesses antibiotic properties.
Similar spelling word for BACITRACIN
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