Introduction to Bacitracin Antibiotics Drugs Inhibitor of Bacteria Wall Synthesis ; Mechanism Action

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Introduction to Bacitracin
Bacitracin is a polypeptide antibiotic that is primarily used topically to treat bacterial infections. It is known for its effectiveness against Gram-positive bacteria and is commonly found in over-the-counter antibiotic ointments.

Mechanism of Action
Cell Wall Synthesis Inhibition: Bacitracin works by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. It interferes with the dephosphorylation of bactoprenol, a lipid carrier molecule that transports peptidoglycan precursors across the bacterial cell membrane. This inhibition prevents the incorporation of these precursors into the growing peptidoglycan chain, leading to a defective cell wall and ultimately causing bacterial cell lysis and death2.

Clinical Uses
Bacitracin is used to treat a variety of infections, including:

Minor skin infections

Superficial wounds

Eye infections (as an ophthalmic ointment)

Side Effects
Common side effects of bacitracin include:

Skin irritation

Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching)

Nephrotoxicity (when used systemically, which is rare)

Resistance
Bacterial resistance to bacitracin can occur through various mechanisms, including:

Efflux Pumps: Bacterial efflux pumps that expel the antibiotic from the cell.

Enzymatic Inactivation: Production of enzymes that inactivate bacitracin.

You can find more detailed information on bacitracin and its role as a cell wall synthesis inhibitor here and here.

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