What type of medications is Bacitracin classified as?

Bacitracin is classified as an antibacterial medication. Its primary function is to inhibit the growth of bacteria, making it effective in treating infections caused by these organisms. Bacitracin works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is essential for the survival and proliferation of bacteria.

In clinical practice, Bacitracin is often used topically to treat minor skin infections and is sometimes included in ointments to prevent infection in minor cuts and abrasions. Its antibacterial properties distinguish it from other classifications; for example, analgesics relieve pain, antiseptics prevent infection by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on the skin, and antivirals target viruses specifically. Thus, Bacitracin's role as an antibacterial agent is crucial in various medical contexts, particularly in wound care and treatment protocols for bacterial infections.