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Bacitracin/neomycin/polymyxin B (On the skin)

Bacitracin (bas-i-TRAY-sin), Neomycin (nee-oh-MYE-sin), Polymyxin B Sulfate (pol-ee-MIX-in B SUL-fate)

Prevents infections caused by minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

Brand Name(s):

Antibiotic Ointment, Basic Care Triple Antibiotic, CareALL Triple Antibiotic Ointment, Dr. Sheffield's Triple Antibiotic, First Aid Triple Antibiotic, Foster&Thrive Triple Antibiotic Ointment, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Triple Antibiotic, Good Sense First Aid Antibiotic, Leader All-Purpose First Aid Kit, Leader Triple Antibiotic, Medi-First Triple Antibiotic, Neosporin, Quality Choice Triple Antibiotic Ointment, Sunmark Triple Antibiotic, Sx1 Medicated Post-Operative System

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to bacitracin, neomycin, or polymyxin B.

How to Use This Medicine:

Ointment, Cream

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
  • FOR USE ON THE SKIN ONLY. Do not use this medicine in or around your eyes or over large areas of your body. This medicine should not be used in your ears if your eardrum is perforated (torn).
  • Clean the wound and apply a small amount of ointment or cream. You may cover the wound with a bandage after putting on the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • For more serious wounds such as puncture wounds, animal bites, or severe burns, you should call your doctor before using this medicine.
  • You should not use this medicine for more than 7 days, unless your doctor has told you to. If your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse, stop using this medicine and call your doctor.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Rash, hives, swelling, or itching that was not there before you started the medicine.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Minor skin tingling after putting on the medicine

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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