Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment is a combination of topical antibiotics used to help prevent or treat certain bacterial skin infections, depending on the product's approved indications. The three antibiotics work against susceptible bacteria to help control bacterial growth in minor skin wounds and other specified skin conditions.
Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment contains three antibiotics: bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B. Together, they target susceptible bacteria through different mechanisms, helping to limit bacterial growth at the application site.
This ointment is intended for external use on the skin when indicated by the product instructions or a healthcare professional. It does not treat viral or fungal infections, and it is not suitable for every type of wound or skin condition.
Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment may be used to:
Help prevent infection in minor cuts and scrapes.
Help prevent bacterial infection in minor burns, where indicated by the product label.
Control the growth of susceptible bacteria on affected skin.
This ointment is not intended for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, serious burns, or extensive skin injuries without medical advice. The appropriate treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional when necessary.
The three antibiotics act against bacteria in different ways:
Bacitracin interferes with the formation of bacterial cell walls.
Neomycin interferes with bacterial protein production.
Polymyxin B disrupts bacterial cell membranes.
Together, these ingredients help inhibit the growth of susceptible bacteria. The ointment does not treat viral or fungal infections, and improvement depends on the nature and severity of the skin condition.
Apply Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment exactly as directed by your healthcare professional or the product packaging.
Clean the affected skin gently and pat it dry before application.
Apply a thin layer to the affected area as directed on the product label.
Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment, unless treating your hands.
Use only on the skin unless the specific product is labelled for another route of administration.
Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
Do not apply it to large areas of the body or cover the treated area tightly unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Do not use it for longer than the period specified on the packaging or recommended by your healthcare professional.
If the condition worsens, does not improve, or develops signs of an allergic reaction, stop using the ointment and seek medical advice.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history and all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use before starting treatment.
Use this ointment with particular caution in the following circumstances:
Allergies: Do not use it if you are allergic to bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B, or any other ingredient in the formulation.
Kidney problems: Seek medical advice if you have kidney disease, particularly before prolonged use or application to damaged skin over a large area.
Hearing problems: Neomycin can affect hearing in certain circumstances, particularly when significant amounts are absorbed into the body.
Deep wounds or serious burns: These injuries require medical assessment and may need different treatment.
Persistent or worsening skin problems: Continued redness, swelling, pain, or discharge may indicate that further assessment is needed.
Interactions are generally less likely with limited topical use than with antibiotics taken by mouth or injection. However, absorption may increase when the ointment is used extensively or on damaged skin. Other aminoglycoside antibiotics, including gentamicin and tobramycin, are relevant when assessing potential overlapping toxicity.
Check possible interactions and precautions with your doctor or pharmacist before using this ointment.
The safety of Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment during pregnancy and breastfeeding depends on the formulation, the amount used, and the area being treated.
Limited topical use may result in lower systemic exposure than oral or injectable antibiotics, but absorption can increase when the skin is damaged or large areas are treated. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
If breastfeeding, avoid allowing the ointment to come into contact with the infant's mouth or skin through direct contact with the treated area.
Like all medicines, Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Possible side effects include:
Mild skin irritation
Redness at the application site
Itching or a rash
Localised swelling or burning
Stop using the ointment and seek prompt medical attention if you develop a severe rash, facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.
This is not a complete list of side effects or warnings. Please refer to the product packaging and patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine for complete information and speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
Store Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B Ointment according to the instructions shown on the original product packaging.
Keep the ointment in its original, tightly closed container.
Protect it from excessive heat and moisture.
Keep it out of reach of children.
Do not use the ointment after its expiry date.
Do not use the product if the packaging is damaged or the ointment appears altered.
Follow any additional storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
It is a combination of topical antibiotics used to help prevent bacterial infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns when indicated by the product label. It is not effective against viral or fungal infections.
The time needed for improvement depends on the wound and whether bacterial infection is present. If the affected area worsens or does not improve within the period specified on the product packaging, seek medical advice.
It may be appropriate for certain minor skin injuries, depending on the product instructions. Do not use it on deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns without medical assessment.
Use caution when applying it to the face, and avoid contact with the eyes and mouth. Ask a healthcare professional before using it near sensitive areas or on facial skin conditions that have not been assessed.
Yes. These antibiotics, particularly neomycin and bacitracin, can cause skin sensitivity or allergic reactions in some people. Stop using the ointment and seek medical advice if a new rash, itching, or swelling develops.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist before use during pregnancy. The decision depends on the product formulation, the area being treated, and the expected benefits and risks.
Use it only for the period specified on the product packaging or recommended by your healthcare professional. Prolonged or unnecessary topical antibiotic use can increase the risk of skin sensitivity and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
