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Triple antibiotic ointment (bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B)

Brand names: Neosporin, Polysporin (without neomycin)

Triple antibiotic ointment helps prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

Brand namesNeosporin, Polysporin (without neomycin)
Type of medicineAntibiotic ointment
Prescription?Over the counter
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Clean wounds often heal fine with plain petroleum jelly. Neomycin is a common cause of skin allergy.

What it's used for

  • Minor cuts, scrapes, and burns

How to take it

  • Clean the area with soap and water, then apply a small amount 1 to 3 times a day.
  • Cover with a bandage if needed.
  • Don't use for more than 1 week unless a provider says to.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Itching or redness (possible allergy to neomycin)
Call your provider todaySpreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever
Call your provider todayRash or blisters where applied

Warnings

  • Get care for deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
  • A tetanus shot may be needed for dirty wounds.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Few interactions.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Generally fine on small areas.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.