Neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin
Neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin, also known as triple antibiotic ointment, is an antibiotic medication used to reduce the risk of infections following minor skin injuries. It contains the three antibiotics neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin. It is for topical use. Possible side effects include itchiness and skin rash, and in rare cases hearing loss. It is relatively broad spectrum, being effective against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The combination was approved for medical use in the United States in 1971. It is available over the counter in the United States. In 2020, it was the 409th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 100thousand prescriptions. Medical uses Neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin ointment is reported to be a safe and effective topical agent for preventing infections in minor skin trauma. It is used for burns, scratches, cuts, and minor skin infections. The use of neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin, decreases infection rates in minor-contaminated wounds. Side effects It is for external use only. It has been shown to cause contact dermatitis in some cases. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria Concern exists that its use contributes to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In the US, the only large market for the ointment, it may increase antibiotic resistance. For