Looking to expand your knowledge of antibiotics? Exploring those that start with the letter “B” reveals some of the most important drugs in our fight against bacterial infections. From well-known medications to lesser-known options, these antibiotics play a crucial role in modern medicine. Let’s delve into the key antibiotics beginning with “B” and their significance in healthcare today.
1. Bacitracin
Bacitracin is a type of antibiotic made from bacteria. It is mainly used on the skin to prevent or treat minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Bacitracin helps stop bacteria from growing and causing infections.
Health Benefits:
- Fights bacterial infections on the skin
- Prevents infection in minor wounds
- Effective against Gram-positive bacteria
How to Take It:
Applied directly to the skin as a cream or ointment. Use as directed by a healthcare provider, usually 1-3 times daily until the wound heals.
Compatibility:
- Best used for skin infections and prevention
- Pairs well with gentle cleaning of wounds
- Not suitable for deep infections or ingestion
2. Biaxin (Clarithromycin)
Biaxin contains clarithromycin, which is a macrolide antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections in the respiratory tract, skin, and throat. It works by stopping bacteria from making proteins they need to grow.
Health Benefits:
- Treats respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia
- Effective for skin infections
- Helps fight certain bacteria resistant to other antibiotics
How to Take It:
Usually taken in capsules or tablets, often twice daily with meals. Follow your doctor’s instructions for dose and duration.
Compatibility:
- Helpful against cold and flu complications caused by bacteria
- Pair with probiotics to balance gut health if needed
- Avoid if allergic to macrolides
3. Bicillin (Penicillin G Benzathine and/or Penicillin G Procaine)
Bicillin is an injectable form of penicillin. It is used to treat bacterial infections such as syphilis and strep throat. It works by killing bacteria directly.
Health Benefits:
- Treats throat and skin infections
- Effective against syphilis and rheumatic fever
- Rapidly kills susceptible bacteria
How to Take It:
Given as an injection by a healthcare professional. Doses depend on the infection severity.
Compatibility:
- Used for systemic infections
- Effective when oral antibiotics are not suitable
- Not for viral infections
4. Polymyxin B
Polymyxin B is an antibiotic mainly used topically to target Gram-negative bacteria. It is found in creams or ointments like Neosporin. It works by disrupting the bacteria’s outer membrane.
Health Benefits:
- Designed for skin infections
- Effective against bacteria like Pseudomonas
- Helps prevent bacterial growth in wounds
How to Take It:
Applied directly to the skin as a topical cream or ointment, usually 1-3 times daily. Follow medical advice for deep or extensive infections.
Compatibility:
- Ideal for superficial skin infections
- Can be combined with other topical agents
- Not for internal useÂ
Eleena Wills is a passionate health and wellness writer with over 5 years of experience in simplifying complex health topics for everyday readers. She holds a background in health communication and has contributed to multiple reputable wellness platforms. Eleena is committed to sharing science-backed tips on nutrition, mental well-being, fitness, and lifestyle habits that support long-term health. When she’s not writing, she’s experimenting with healthy recipes or practicing yoga.