Polysporin - Over-the-Counter Ointment for Wound Care

Polysporin is an over-the-counter ointment that contains antibiotics to prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It helps in the healing process and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.
Category
Medication
Where to get
Available at pharmacies and drugstores
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Polysporin FAQ


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What is Polysporin used for?

Polysporin (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to help prevent infections from cuts, scraps, and/or burns. Polysporin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

What is the difference between Polysporin and Neosporin?

Polysporin (bacitracin / polymyxin B) and Neosporin are two different medications that are applied onto your skin to prevent bacterial skin infection after minor injury. Both medications contain bacitracin and polymyxin B. But Neosporin also contains neomycin, which is another antibiotic. You can get both Neosporin and Polysporin over the counter.

Is there a generic version of Polysporin?

The Polysporin First Aid Antibiotic Ointment brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available. What is Polysporin? Polysporin (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to help prevent infections from cuts, scraps, and/or burns.

Does Polysporin have neomycin?

It is a double antibiotic, containing Bacitracin and Polymyxin B. It helps prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. It does not contain Neomycin. Using POLYSPORIN® past its expiration date is unsafe, risky, and does not guarantee similar effectiveness. Do not use POLYSPORIN® that is expired.

What is polysporin ophthalmic ointment?

POLYSPORIN Ophthalmic Ointment is indicated for the topical treatment of superficial infections of the external eye and its adnexa caused by susceptible bacteria. Such infections encompass conjunctivitis, keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis, blepharitis and blepharoconjunctivitis.

Polysporin References

If you want to know more about Polysporin, consider exploring links below:

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