Mycitracin Cream Uses

Mycitracin cream is a widely used topical medication known for its ability to prevent and treat minor skin infections and promote wound healing.

1. Wound Care: Mycitracin ointment is often used to clean and protect minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and other small wounds. It helps prevent infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and provides a barrier to keep the wound clean.
2. Insect Bites and Stings: It can be applied to insect bites and stings to prevent infection and soothe the affected area. The antibiotics in the ointment help reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections.
3. Dermatitis and Skin Irritations: Mycitracin ointment may be used to manage various forms of dermatitis, including contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. It can help reduce inflammation and prevent bacterial infections.
4. Minor Skin Surgical Procedures: In some cases, healthcare providers may apply Mycitracin ointment before and after minor surgical procedures performed in a clinical setting to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.
5. External Ear Infections: Mycitracin ointment can be applied to the external ear to treat infections and reduce inflammation. However, it should not be used in the ear canal unless directed by a healthcare provider.
6. Prevention of Infection in Tattoo Aftercare: Some people use Mycitracin ointment during the initial stages of tattoo healing to prevent infection and provide a barrier against bacteria. However, it is essential to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the tattoo artist.

Off-label Uses of Mycitracin Cream

1. Acne Lesion Treatment: Some individuals apply Mycitracin cream to individual acne lesions or pustules to prevent infection and promote healing. However, it’s not a standard treatment for acne, and it may not be as effective as other acne-specific products.
2. Skin Irritations: Mycitracin cream may be used off-label to soothe and protect against skin irritations, including chafing, razor burn, and mild sunburn when there is a risk of secondary bacterial infection.
3. Preventing Infections in Minor Burns: It can be used to prevent bacterial infections in minor burns, such as those caused by hot surfaces or liquids. Mycitracin cream may provide an additional layer of protection for the healing burn.
4. Nasal Vestibulitis: Some people apply a small amount of Mycitracin cream to the inside of the nostrils to manage nasal vestibulitis, which is the inflammation of the nasal vestibule. It may help reduce irritation and prevent secondary bacterial infection in this area.
5. Moisturizing Dry Skin: In some instances, individuals with dry and cracked skin may use Mycitracin cream as a moisturizer, although it is not typically recommended for this purpose due to the presence of antibiotics.
6. Chapped Lips: Some individuals use a small amount of Mycitracin cream on chapped lips to relieve discomfort and prevent secondary infection. However, lip-specific moisturizing products are generally preferred for this use.
7. Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Mycitracin ointment, not the cream, may be prescribed by a healthcare provider for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) in some cases. It should only be used in the eye under medical supervision.

Formulation and Ingredients

• Lignocaine: 4%w/w
• Bacitracin: 500IU/gm
• Polymyxin B (Sulfate): 5000IU/gm
• Neomycin: 3.5mg/gm

Mycitracin cream’s primary ingredients include Bacitracin and Polymyxin B. These antibiotics work together to combat a wide range of bacteria, making the cream effective in preventing and treating minor skin infections.

How to Properly Apply Mycitracin Cream

Here are the steps on how to properly apply Mycitracin cream:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Clean and dry the affected area.
• Apply a small amount of cream (no more than the size of a pea) to the affected area.
• Rub the cream in gently until it is absorbed into the skin.
• Wash your hands again with soap and water.
• You should apply Mycitracin cream 2-3 times a day. It is important to use the cream for the full length of time prescribed by your doctor, even if the symptoms improve.

Here are some additional tips for applying Mycitracin cream:

• Do not apply the cream to open wounds or cuts.
• Do not apply the cream to the eyes, nose, or mouth.
• If the cream gets into your eyes, rinse them immediately with water for 15 minutes.
• If you have any questions or concerns about using Mycitracin cream, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Who Should Avoid Mycitracin Cream? – Contraindications

1. Allergy or Hypersensitivity: Do not use Mycitracin cream if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to bacitracin, polymyxin B, or any of the other ingredients in the cream. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin irritation to more severe symptoms like itching, redness, swelling, or hives.
2. Eye Use: Mycitracin cream is intended for external use only and should not be applied directly to the eyes. It is not suitable for treating eye infections or conditions. If you have an eye infection, consult an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for appropriate treatment.
3. Deep or Puncture Wounds: Avoid using Mycitracin cream on deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. These types of injuries may require more specialized medical attention and should not be self-treated with topical antibiotics alone.
4. Sensitivity to Neomycin or Other Antibiotics: While Mycitracin cream does not contain neomycin, some similar combination products may include neomycin. If you are sensitive to neomycin or have experienced an allergic reaction to other antibiotics, discuss this with your healthcare provider before using Mycitracin or a similar product.
5. Prolonged Use: Mycitracin cream should not be used for prolonged periods or on large areas of the body without the guidance of a healthcare provider. Prolonged use may lead to antibiotic resistance and other potential side effects.
6. Children: While Mycitracin cream is generally considered safe for use in children, it should be used cautiously and according to the instructions on the product label or under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially in infants and very young children.

FAQs – Addressing Your Top Questions

1. Q: Can Mycitracin cream be used on children?
   Yes, it is generally safe for children. However, it should be used under adult supervision and following proper medical guidance.
2. Q: Is Mycitracin cream suitable for use on the face?
   It is generally not recommended for facial use. Consult a dermatologist for facial skin concerns.
3. Q: How often should I apply Mycitracin cream?
   Typically, it is applied 1 to 3 times a day, following proper cleansing.
4. Q: Can I use Mycitracin cream for an extended period?
   Use it as directed on the label or as advised by a healthcare provider. Do not use it for an extended period without professional guidance.
5. Q: What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Mycitracin cream?
   Discontinue use immediately, wash the affected area, and seek medical attention if needed.

The following are Some alternative brands of Mycitracin Cream and their manufacturers.

Healit : Atco Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.

Xyloaid : Barrett Hodgson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Bacimix : Epla Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Planoderm : Freiends Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Becnot : Everest Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.