| drug name | Gramicidin |
| classification | Antimicrobial (Peptide antibiotic) |
| pharmacokinetics | Limited data available on human pharmacokinetics. Gramicidin is poorly absorbed orally and is primarily used topically or intravenously. Mechanism of action involves disrupting cell membranes. Rapid absorption from topical applications, but systemic absorption is unpredictable. Excreted primarily by the kidneys. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage information is highly dependent on the formulation and route of administration. **DO NOT** use gramicidin without specific medical guidance. Gramicidin is NOT a medication usually self-administered. |
| indications | Gramicidin is used topically to treat superficial skin infections, in particular, those caused by susceptible gram-positive bacteria. It's also used in some topical preparations for wound healing and to treat some fungal infections, but its use is limited. |
| safety in pregnancy | Insufficient data to assess safety in pregnancy. Use only under direct medical supervision, considering potential risks outweighing potential benefits. **Not recommended for use during pregnancy** unless the benefit outweighs the risk, which is extremely rare. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Insufficient data available. **Not recommended** due to potential risk of transferring to the infant. **Do not use while breastfeeding.** |
| side effects | | 1 | Local irritation (burning, stinging, itching) | | 2 | Skin rash | | 3 | Allergic reactions (rare) | | 4 | Systemic toxicity if absorbed in substantial amounts. |
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| alternatives | | 1 | | | 2 | | alternative drug | Neomycin | | class | Antibiotic | | notes | Often used topically and can have systemic effects. Careful consideration needed. |
| | 3 | | alternative drug | Mupirocin | | class | Antibiotic | | notes | More specific anti-bacterial action than gramicidin, used for topical infections. |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to gramicidin or any component of the formulation. | | 2 | Known hypersensitivity to similar antibiotics or peptides. |
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| interactions | Limited interaction data available. Specific drug interactions should be carefully considered when prescribing alongside other medications. **Consult a physician for interactions.** |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Use only as directed by a physician. | | 2 | Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. | | 3 | Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity (e.g., rash, itching, difficulty breathing). | | 4 | Significant systemic absorption is a concern and requires careful monitoring and administration in topical and IV settings |
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| additional information | Gramicidin is a potent antibiotic. Its clinical use is often limited due to potential side effects and variable absorption. **A doctor should always oversee its use.** This information is for educational purposes only, and should not be used for self-treatment. |
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