Antibiotic Ointments

NEOSPORIN® (triple antibiotic ointment) is the best-known formula, combining neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin for broad-spectrum infection prevention. Polysporin® (bacitracin + polymyxin B) is another leading antibiotic ointment, especially for people allergic to neomycin. Mupirocin (Bactroban®) is a prescription-only ointment, highly effective for staph and MRSA skin infections.

Yes, but only as directed by your doctor! Mupirocin ointment is often prescribed intranasally to eliminate nasal MRSA colonization. Avoid putting over-the-counter ointments deep into your nose unless advised medically.

Neosporin is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used topically and sparingly. Always consult your OB/GYN or healthcare provider before use, especially on large wounds or for extended periods.

Prescription bacitracin or erythromycin ointment is considered most effective. Never use ointments containing neomycin or bacitracin inside the eye without medical advice.

Yes, topical antibiotic ointments reduce infection risk, minimize bacterial growth, and support faster, cleaner wound healing on minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions.

Mupirocin (Bactroban) ointment is the gold standard for nasal bacterial infections and MRSA decolonization.

Yes, Mupirocin is approved and widely used for children. Always use as prescribed by your pediatrician.

Polysporin (for those allergic to neomycin) Bacitracin-only ointment Vaseline (petroleum jelly) for wound moisture and basic healing (no antibiotics, but promotes moist wound healing)

Inside the eyes, large open wounds, or deep puncture wounds Never use inside the ear without medical guidance Not for use on animal bites or serious burns without a doctor’s advice

Yes, Polysporin is a dual antibiotic ointment (bacitracin and polymyxin B), effective against a wide range of skin bacteria.

No, only use antibiotic ointments specifically labeled for ophthalmic (eye) use, such as erythromycin or bacitracin ophthalmic ointment. OTC or regular Neosporin/Polysporin is not safe for eyes.

Keep the wound clean and covered Use warm compresses for boils Apply Vaseline or a hydrocolloid bandage for moist healing Monitor closely and seek medical care if worsening

Not for topical use alone. Oral antibiotics for bacterial skin infection may be prescribed for 3–5 days, but ointments are typically used until the wound heals or as directed.

Yes: Polysporin, Bacitracin, natural remedies like medical-grade honey, or basic Vaseline for non-infected wounds.

Growing rates of neomycin allergy/sensitization For many wounds, plain petroleum jelly/Vaseline is just as effective for healing, reducing antibiotic resistance risk.

Polysporin is a dual-antibiotic ointment (bacitracin + polymyxin B) for first-aid use on minor wounds, with a lower allergy risk than triple antibiotics.

Daily cleaning, antibiotic ointment or Vaseline, keeping wounds moist, covering with a sterile bandage, and monitoring for infection all significantly speed up healing.

NEOSPORIN, Polysporin, or plain petroleum jelly (Vaseline)—all support moist wound healing. Use antibiotic ointment if infection risk is high.

Polysporin: Fewer allergy risks, just as effective for minor wounds. Neosporin: Broader spectrum, but higher allergy risk (neomycin). Your doctor can advise the best choice for you!

Triple antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) contains: Neomycin, Polymyxin B, Bacitracin. It provides broad protection against common skin bacteria.

For most minor wounds, Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is equally effective at healing and reducing scarring, but does not kill bacteria. Choose Neosporin if the wound is at risk for infection.

Broad-spectrum, fast-acting bacterial protection Soothes, heals, and relieves pain on contact Ideal for minor cuts, scrapes, burns, styes, and post-surgical wounds Safe for all ages, with pediatric/child-friendly options Pharmacist-approved and recommended by healthcare professionals Available in NEOSPORIN, Polysporin, bacitracin, mupirocin, and more