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Generic

Bacitracin Zinc + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymixin B topical

4 brands available in the market

At a glance

Bacitracin Zinc + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymixin B topical is a combination antibiotic used for the treatment of bacterial skin infections. It is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Description

Bacitracin Zinc + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymixin B topical is a combination of three antibiotics: Bacitracin, Neomycin and Polymyxin B. These antibiotics work by killing the bacteria or stopping their growth on the skin. Together, they treat skin infections effectively.

Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that binds to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, inhibiting protein synthesis. Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis and is active against gram-positive bacteria. Polymyxin B disrupts the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane of most gram-negative organisms.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area 3 times daily. Treatment should be continued until at least two days after the condition has resolved.

Indications
  • Bacterial skin infections (impetigo, boils, infected wounds)
  • Post-surgical infection prevention
Therapeutic class

Topical Antibiotic Combination

Pharmacological class

Aminoglycoside + Polypeptide + Polymyxin

Pharmacology

Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that binds to the 30S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, inhibiting protein synthesis and disrupting DNA synthesis. It is active against gram-negative aerobes and some strains of staphylococci.

Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis and is active against gram-positive bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci, corynebacteria, clostridia) and some gram-negative species (Neisseria and Haemophilus influenzae).

Polymyxin B binds to membrane phospholipids, disrupting the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane of most gram-negative organisms, allowing leakage of intracellular constituents.

Mechanism of action

Neomycin binds to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, inhibiting protein synthesis. Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall peptidoglycan synthesis. Polymyxin B disrupts the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. This combination provides broad-spectrum activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Dosage

Adults and Children: Apply topically to affected area 3 times daily.

Administration

For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area before application. Apply a thin layer of ointment and gently massage. Wash hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, apply as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Side effects
  • Application site burning
  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Scaling

In most cases, these reactions are mild and temporary.

Precautions & warnings
  • Apply only to affected areas
  • Do not apply to broken or damaged skin
  • Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth
  • Do not use airtight dressings or bandages unless directed by a doctor
  • Prolonged use may cause overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi
  • Caution during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
  • Hypersensitivity to bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B, or any component
Drug interactions
  • Bacitracin Zinc: Increased nephrotoxicity risk with other nephrotoxic drugs; may enhance neuromuscular-blocking agents
  • Neomycin Sulphate: Additive nephrotoxic and neurotoxic effects with other aminoglycosides, cisplatin, vancomycin, amphotericin B, polymyxin B, colistin; enhanced toxicity with potent diuretics; may reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives
  • Polymyxin B: Additive neurotoxic or nephrotoxic effects with bacitracin, streptomycin, neomycin, gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, colistin; increased risk of respiratory paralysis with neuromuscular blockers
Food interactions

No food restrictions (topical application).

Use in pregnancy

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Limited safety data during pregnancy (Category C). Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Use only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

[SAFE IF PRESCRIBED] Bacitracin Zinc + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymixin B topical is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.

Pediatric use

Pediatric dosage is same as adults (apply 3 times daily). Consult doctor before use in neonatal infections.

Geriatric use

No dose adjustment needed for elderly patients.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Systemic absorption with topical application is minimal, but caution is advised in severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Overdose effects

Overuse may cause systemic absorption and toxicity. Consult a doctor if symptoms occur.

Storage conditions

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Bacitracin Zinc + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymyxin B Sulphate

Common questions

What is this ointment used for?
It is used for bacterial skin infections such as impetigo, boils, and infected wounds.
How should it be used?
Clean and dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer of ointment 3 times daily.
What are the side effects?
Application site burning, itching, and redness may occur.
Can it be used during pregnancy?
Category C. Consult your doctor before use.
How long should it be used?
Continue for at least 2 days after the condition has resolved. Consult your doctor if no improvement after 7 days.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.