Brand Name
Polysporin Antibiotic Ointment
Common Name
polymyxin B - bacitracin zinc
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 02237227 | POLYSPORIN ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT |
| 02239157 | POLYSPORIN STERILE OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Polymyxin B sulfate - bacitracin zinc contains a combination of antibiotics used to treat certain types of infections caused by bacteria. The topical ointment can be used to treat certain skin infections such as infected wounds, burns,
skin grafts, boils, and acne. The eye ointment is used to treat some types of eye infections such as conjunctivitis. All preparations work by killing the bacteria that cause these infections.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this
with your doctor or are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
Topical ointment: Apply 1 to 3 times a day to the affected area. Cover with a dressing or leave exposed as directed by your doctor. Do not use the ointment in the eyes.
Eye ointment: Apply 4 times a day or more frequently, as directed by your doctor. It may be applied to the outside of the eyelid or a ribbon of ointment may be placed inside the lower conjunctival sac (inside of the eyelid).
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are
using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, and keep it out of the reach of children.
This medication is available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms listed here. The forms available for the specific brand you have searched are listed under, "What form(s) does this medication come in?"
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Polysporin Antibiotic Ointment
Each gram contains polymyxin B (as sulfate) 10,000 units and bacitracin zinc 500 units. Nonmedicinal ingredients: butylated hydroxytoluene, cocoa butter, cotton seed oil, olive oil, petrolatum, sodium pyruvate, and vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopheryl
acetate).
Polysporin Sterile Ophthalmic Ointment
Each gram contains polymyxin B (as sulfate) 10,000 units and bacitracin zinc 500 units. Nonmedicinal ingredients: butylated hydroxytoluene and petrolatum.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to polymyxin B sulfate, bacitracin zinc, or any ingredients of the medication.
