Overview Of Over-The-Counter Antibiotics

Bacitracin

Bacitracin seems to available on its own as an ointment, as well as in Polysporin. It appears to be used to treat burns, cuts, and scapes if they are minor. Bacitracin may help prevent infection and treat it if it has already occurred. This ointment does not seem to help puncture wounds, animal bites, deep wounds, or severe burns. It may also be unsafe for individuals who are allergic to petroleum jelly or mineral oil.

Patients may only be allowed to apply this ointment to small affected areas. However, it seems to be safe to use one to three times daily. Covering the wound with a bandage may help improve the effectiveness. Allergic reactions may be rare, though individuals should still consider watching for signs of one. These symptoms may include facial swelling, hives, tongue swelling, lip swelling, and breathing problems. Patients may need emergency care for an allergic reaction to this ointment. Finally, pregnant women, or those who are breastfeeding, may need to ask their doctor before using this antibiotic.

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Neomycin

Neomycin appears to be used in a few over-the-counter ointments for the skin. These ones may contain other antibiotics as well, such as bacitracin. Neomycin ointments may prevent infection. They also seem to help increase how fast minor burns, cuts, and scrapes heal. It may work on sores too. Patients should consider washing their hands before and after applying this type of ointment. A thin layer appears to be appropriate. Large amounts used on broken skin may trigger side effects. These effects seem to include hearing loss and kidney issues if the patient's body absorbs too much. This may be by kidney disease patients should talk to their doctor about this type of ointment first. Other side effects may be skin redness, irritation, burning, and itching. Patients may want to report these right away.

Neomycin ointment may not be safe to use on a child's diaper area. If a doctor does believe it is needed, the child does not seem to be able to wear a tight diaper. Tight diapers could make the child absorb more ointment than is safe. Pregnant women may need to ask their doctor about this antibiotic first as well.

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