Side-by-Side Comparison · 2026

Bacitracin vs Gramicidin A

Bacitracin vs Gramicidin A — mechanism, half-life, dosing, and research status compared. Which is right for your protocol?

Bacitracin
Antimicrobial Peptide

Bacitracin is a polycyclic peptide antibiotic from Bacillus subtilis licheniformis, first isolated in 1945 from wound cultures of a 7-year-old girl named Margaret Tracy (hence "bacitracin"). It is available OTC in Neosporin and similar triple-antibiotic ointments and is one of th...

Calculate Bacitracin dose →
Gramicidin A
Antimicrobial Peptide

Gramicidin A is a 15-residue linear peptide antibiotic from Bacillus brevis, distinct from the cyclic gramicidin S despite sharing the same producer organism. Gramicidin A is the active component in Neosporin and other topical antibiotic combinations....

Calculate Gramicidin A dose →
Key Parameters
Parameter Bacitracin Gramicidin A
Category Antimicrobial Peptide Antimicrobial Peptide
Research FDA Approved (topical) Approved (topical combination)
Half-Life Hours (topical) Hours (membrane-bound)
Typical Dose 400-500 units/g ointment Component of Neosporin and similar products
Frequency 1-3x daily As needed
Route Topical Topical (combination products)
FDA Status Approved (topical) Approved (topical combination)

Calculate doses for both

Use ASCEND's free reconstitution calculator to get exact syringe draw amounts for your vial.

Calculate Bacitracin Calculate Gramicidin A
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Bacitracin and Gramicidin A?
Bacitracin: Bacitracin is a polycyclic peptide antibiotic from Bacillus subtilis licheniformis, first isolated in 1945 from wound cultures of a 7-year-old girl named Margaret Tracy (hence "bacitracin"). It is ava... Gramicidin A: Gramicidin A is a 15-residue linear peptide antibiotic from Bacillus brevis, distinct from the cyclic gramicidin S despite sharing the same producer organism. Gramicidin A is the active component in N...
Which has a longer half-life, Bacitracin or Gramicidin A?
Bacitracin half-life: Hours (topical). Gramicidin A half-life: Hours (membrane-bound).
Can you stack Bacitracin and Gramicidin A?
Bacitracin and Gramicidin A are in the same category and used together in research protocols. Always consult relevant literature and follow appropriate guidelines.

For research use only. Not medical advice. ASCEND does not conduct or endorse any specific research protocol. Always consult relevant scientific literature and regulatory guidelines.