Description
What is Neosporin® Ointment/Powder
Neosporin® medicated ointment/powder is used to prevent and treat minor skin infections caused by small cuts, scrapes, or burns. Do not use this product over large areas of the body. Ask your doctor first before using this product for serious skin injuries or infections (e.g., deep cuts, puncture wounds, animal bites, serious burns). A different treatment may be necessary for these types of conditions.
This product contains neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin, antibiotics that work by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication prevents/treats only bacterial skin infections. It will not work for other types of skin infections (e.g., infections caused by fungi, viruses). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
How to use Neosporin® Ointment/Powder
This medication is for use on the skin only. Follow all directions on the product package or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your dermatologist.
Clean and dry the affected skin area. If you are using the ointment, wash your hands first. Then apply a small amount of medication (no more than can fit on your fingertip) in a thin layer on the skin and rub in gently, usually 1 to 3 times a day. Wash your hands after applying the ointment.
Do not use large amounts of this medication or apply this more often or for a longer period than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the risk of side effects may be increased. Do not use this product for longer than 1 week unless directed by your doctor. Do not use this medication on irritated skin in a child’s diaper area unless directed by the doctor.
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or inside the nose or mouth. If this occurs, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with water.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
If your condition does not improve after a few days or if it worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
Side effects of Neosporin® Ointment/Powder
Neosporin is usually well tolerated. Rarely, use of this medication may result in other types of skin infections (e.g., fungal or other bacterial infections). Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual skin symptoms or if your condition does not improve.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash (including redness, burning), itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
