Furacin Ointment Description

Furacin Ointment or generic Nitrofurazone is a topical medication prescribed to treat or prevent bacterial skin infections, especially for those with burns or skin grafts and donor sites. This anti-infective ointment works to kill Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, Escherichia coli, and several other organisms that could easily invade cuts, wounds, and skin ulcers as well as burns and grafts. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Furacin Ointment Works as a Bactericidal Medication

When applied as directed, Furacin Ointment is absorbed into skin cells and inhibits the action of several bacterial enzymes that are essential in order for the bacteria to be able to grow and multiply. Without the enzymes, the bacteria die and the infection diminishes. Furacin Ointment can also be applied to a dressing to cover larger areas of infection and is able to penetrate any scabbing caused by burned skin.

Conditions Treated by Furacin Ointment

Burns can occur from many sources, such as fire, hot steam or liquids, UV rays, electrical currents, and certain chemicals. A major complication of having a burn is infection. This is especially worrisome if the injured area is widespread. Besides being painful, burns and other injuries that break the skin are an open invitation to bacteria. A burn injury does not usually affect your skin uniformly so you could have varying degrees of damaged skin.

A first degree burn only affects the outer layer of your skin called the epidermis and can heal within days with simple first-aid measures. A second degree burn involves the next layer of skin as well; blisters can develop and the affected area appears moist with increased redness, swelling, and is more painful. Third degrees burns reach the fatty layer beneath your skin and can cause permanent nerve damage. The threat of a bacterial infection may be avoided by treating some of these burns or the skin graft sites with Furacin Ointment.

Before Applying Furacin Ointment

Depending on the type of injury, your doctor may recommend just the simple application to the affected area or could instruct you to apply Furacin Ointment to sterile gauze pads to cover a larger amount of skin involved. Tell your doctor about any OTC and Rx medications and allergies you have, including herbal preparations and supplements that could interfere with the ingredients of Furacin Ointment before the application. Discuss current conditions you have with your doctor that could make it unsafe for you to use Furacin Ointment.

Proper Use and Recommendations for Furacin Ointment

Do not apply Furacin Ointment on young children or older adults unless specified by a doctor. Those with kidney disease may not be able to eliminate the Furacin Ointment that has been absorbed into their body which could increase the risk of side effects. Ask if Furacin Ointment is safe to apply if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Wash your hands before and after applying Furacin Ointment, unless it is your hands that require treatment.

Possible Side Effects of Furacin Ointment

• Itching
• Rash
• Swelling

Drugs Similar to Furacin Ointment

• Flamazine 1% Cream
• Fucidin Ointment
• Neosporin Antibiotic Ointment