How do you take Neomycin (Neomycin Sulfate); Bacitracin Zinc; Polymyxin B Sulfate?

Clean the affected area with clean water and dry it gently. Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the wound or infected skin 1 to 3 times a day. You can cover it with a clean bandage if needed. For eye ointment, apply a small strip inside the lower eyelid as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use for more than 7 days unless your doctor says so.

What are the side effects of Neomycin (Neomycin Sulfate); Bacitracin Zinc; Polymyxin B Sulfate?

Mild itching or irritation where you applied it, slight redness of the skin, mild rash or burning sensation at the application site

Who should not take Neomycin (Neomycin Sulfate); Bacitracin Zinc; Polymyxin B Sulfate?

People who are allergic to Neomycin, Bacitracin, Polymyxin B, or any aminoglycoside antibiotic should not use this ointment. Do not use on deep puncture wounds, serious burns, or very large areas of damaged skin without a doctor's guidance.

OTC

Antibiotic (topical combination)

Neomycin; Bacitracin Zinc; Polymyxin B Sulfate

Q: What is Neomycin (Neomycin Sulfate); Bacitracin Zinc; Polymyxin B Sulfate used for?

Minor skin infections, cuts and wounds that may be infected, burns, skin sores, boils, rashes with infection

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

This is a triple antibiotic ointment that combines three different antibiotics: Neomycin, Bacitracin, and Polymyxin B, to fight a wide range of bacteria on the skin and prevent infections from getting worse.

How it works

Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis (neomycin and polymyxin B by binding to 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits) and disrupts bacterial cell membrane integrity (bacitracin by inhibiting cell wall synthesis), providing broad-spectrum bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.

What is it used for?

Minor skin infectionscuts and wounds that may be infectedburnsskin soresboilsrashes with infection

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Skin Infections Sepsis & Severe Infections Vitamins & Supplements Wound Care & Antiseptics Topical Antibiotics & Antiseptics Bacterial Infections

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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Similar drugs

Neomycin; Bacitracin zinc

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What to watch out for

Buy only from trusted pharmacies. Products like Neobacin Plus Ointment or Triderlin Ointment should have proper NAFDAC numbers. Complete the full course of treatment even if the wound looks better to prevent the infection from coming back. Do not share your ointment with others as this can spread infection.

Common Side Effects

Mild itching or irritation where you applied it
slight redness of the skin
mild rash or burning sensation at the application site

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
difficulty breathing
or widespread rash: go to the hospital immediately. Hearing problems or ringing in the ears if used on large wounds or broken skin for a long time: stop using and see a doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Avoid using other antibiotic creams or ointments on the same area at the same time unless your doctor tells you to. If you are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics like gentamicin by injection, tell your doctor before using this ointment as it may increase the risk of kidney or hearing problems. No known interaction with food or alcohol since it is applied on the skin.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor before using this ointment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is generally considered safe for small skin areas, but a doctor should confirm.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to Neomycin
Bacitracin
Polymyxin B
or any aminoglycoside antibiotic should not use this ointment. Do not use on deep puncture wounds
serious burns
or very large areas of damaged skin without a doctor's guidance.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it inside a car or near a window. Keep the tube tightly closed and away from children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.