Archive for the ‘Antibiotics’ category

Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Antibiotic

May 15th, 2011

The pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria is a gram negative bacterium that is commonly found inhabiting soil, water and the surface of the skin apart from being widespread in nature. It can cause diseases in both animals and humans, and is generally found targeting those with compromised immunity – it is often referred to as an opportunistic bacterium because of this tendency, as a result of which it does not affect healthy individuals. It generally manifests in symptoms that cause inflammation and infection of the blood or sepsis, but in some cases infection can spread to internal organ systems which can be extremely dangerous, sometimes fatal. Because of its ability to inhabit practically any surface, this bacterium is also found on medical equipment that is not sterilized, and raises the dangers of cross contamination. As with gram negative bacteria, administering antibiotics can help in controlling the infection and curbing the spread. Features of the pseudomonas aeruginosa antibiotic are discussed below.

Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Susceptibility

Treatment of a bacterial infection is dependent on the identification of the causative agent. Typical symptoms of pseudomonas aeruginosa infection include the skin turning pale blue, swollen eyelids, sudden weight loss, difficulty in breathing, headaches and irritability, but the generic nature of these symptoms can often cause difficulties in accurate diagnosis. In the case of bacteria, gram staining is carried out to understand the course of action to follow as disease treatment will vary for gram negative versus gram positive bacterial strains. In many cases, pseudomonas aeruginosa is found in swab tests that are taken from the mouth, skin or sputum, but since it is habitually found on the skin surface, it could potentially represent a colonization and not an infection. A microbiologist is generally called in to deal with identification of the infection. However, if the bacteria is found in the blood, bone or other associated tissue, it is a potentially serious condition that requires treatment with a pseudomonas aeruginosa antibiotic. Typical pseudomona aeruginosa infections that can be treated with antibiotics include:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Infections of the upper respiratory tract
  • Dermatitis
  • Gastrointestinal infections

Certain people are at high risk for infection with this bacterium, this includes those with cystic fibrosis, as well as those with AIDS and Cancer, since these diseases typically reduce immunity.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa antibiotic sensitivity is low, because of a protective outer covering and an inherent nature of resistance which makes it able to take on most routine medication. » Read more: Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Antibiotic

Mupirocin Ointment

May 10th, 2011

Mupirocin is the generic name for a topical medicine, purported to be effective in treatment of impetigo. And impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus pyrogenes (in same cases). Most commonly reported amongst kids and children, it is extremely contagious. The notable symptoms of impetigo include increased redness, soreness and outbreak of blisters in various parts of the body. In the market, you will find Mupirocin ointment under the brand names, Centany, Bactroban and Bactroban nasal.

Mupirocin Ointment: What is it?

A lot of antibiotic drugs and medications are developed in medical science, which claim to be effective against specific bacterial diseases. And it is virtually not possible to keep a track of them. However, it is mandatory to know the therapeutic action, dosage to be used and probable side effects, before actually using any medication for therapeutic purpose. Coming to Mupirocin, this natural antibiotic, represented by the molecular formula C26H44O9, is derived from the bacterial strain Pseudomonas fluorescens.

The FDA has approved Mupirocin ointment in the year 1987. In this ointment formulation, castor oil, propylene alcohol, hard fat and other base ingredients are used in specific amounts. Speaking about, Mupirocin ointment 2 percent, it is made up of 20 milligram Mupirocin with other base ingredients. In addition, Mupirocin nasal ointment is formulated for application in the nose. Approved by FDA in 1995, this topical medication is administered by patients and people working in health care centers to minimize the risk of severe staph infections during their stay in hospital.

Mupirocin Ointment: Therapeutic Action

From the above info, you might have understood about, ‘what is Mupirocin used for’. Yes, Mupirocin ointment uses are concentrated on impairing growth or killing of Staphylococcus, MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) and other gram-positive bacteria. Inside the bacterium, it impairs the activity of enzyme isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase. » Read more: Mupirocin Ointment