Brand Name
Bioderm Ointment
Common Name
polymyxin B - bacitracin zinc
In this drug factsheet:
What side effects are possible with this medication?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who uses this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people using this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
- blurred vision (usually occurs after the ophthalmic ointment is applied and lasts for a few minutes)
- irritation of the area where the ointment is applied
Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
- signs of a severe allergic reaction such as severe rash or hives; difficulty breathing; or swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?
Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Eye infections: If eye irritation occurs or if the eye infection worsens or has not started to improve in 2 days, call your doctor immediately.
Overgrowth of organisms: Prolonged use of this medication may cause an overgrowth of organisms that this medication does not effectively kill. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, call your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: It is not clear what effects polymyxin B sulfate - bacitracin zinc may have in pregnant women. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if polymyxin B sulfate - bacitracin zinc passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Seniors: The maximum dose should be reduced for seniors with decreased kidney function.
What other drugs could interact with this medication?
Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
- stop taking one of the medications,
- change one of the medications to another,
- change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
- leave everything as is.
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
