Bacitracin and polymyxin B topical
Generic name: bacitracin and polymyxin B topical [ BAS-i-TRAY-sin-and-POL-ee-MIX-in-B ]
Brand names: Double Antibiotic, Polysporin, Simply Neosporin, Polysporin Ointment, Polytracin, Betadine Antibiotic
Dosage form: topical ointment (500 units-10000 units/g)
Drug class: Topical antibiotics
What is bacitracin and polymyxin B topical?
Bacitracin and polymyxin B topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to help prevent infections from cuts, scraps, and/or burns.
Bacitracin and polymyxin B topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Bacitracin and polymyxin B topical side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using bacitracin and polymyxin B topical and call your doctor at once if:
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you need to use this medicine longer than 1 week;
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your condition persists or gets worse; or
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a rash or other allergic reaction occurs.
Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use bacitracin and polymyxin B topical if you are allergic to it.
Do not use bacitracin and polymyxin B topical in your eyes and over large areas of your body.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if bacitracin and polymyxin B topical is safe to use if you have:
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deep or puncture wounds;
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animal bites; or
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serious burns.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
How should I use bacitracin and polymyxin B topical?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Wash your hands before and after applying bacitracin and polymyxin B topical.
Bacitracin and polymyxin B topical is applied on the affected area 1 to 3 times daily. Clean the affected area before using this medicine. The area where the medicine is applied may be covered with a sterile bandage.
Do not use bacitracin and polymyxin B topical longer than 1 week unless your doctor tells you to.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Related/similar drugs
Bactrim, sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim, bacitracin topical, tetracycline topical, Neosporin
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.
What should I avoid while using bacitracin and polymyxin B topical?
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with bacitracin and polymyxin B topical unless your doctor tells you to.
What other drugs will affect bacitracin and polymyxin B topical?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
More about bacitracin / polymyxin b topical
Patient resources
Other brands
Polysporin First Aid Antibiotic Ointment, Simply Neosporin
Related treatment guides
Further information
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
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