Neosporin
Neosporin is a ointment/powder made by GSK that contains Neomycin + Polymyxin B + Bacitracin. It combines Neomycin: antibiotic (skin), Polymyxin B: antibiotic (skin) and Bacitracin: antibiotic (skin).
| Ingredient (salt) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Neomycin | see pack |
| Polymyxin B | see pack |
| Bacitracin | see pack |
Neomycin
What it is used for
Prevents or treats bacterial infection in minor cuts and wounds.
How it works
An aminoglycoside antibiotic used in skin creams and ear or eye drops for surface bacterial infections.
How to take it
Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day for no more than 7 to 10 days.
Common side effects
Skin allergy (contact dermatitis) is common
Get medical help straight away if
- Rash spreads or worsens
- Hearing changes with ear drops in a perforated eardrum
Be careful
Can cause skin allergy in some people.
Other medicines and interactions
Not for large wounds or broken eardrums. Avoid using for long.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Short skin use is generally acceptable; ask a doctor.
Polymyxin B
What it is used for
Prevents infection in minor wounds.
How it works
An antibiotic that damages bacterial cell membranes, used in skin ointments and eye or ear drops, usually with other antibiotics.
How to take it
Apply or instil as directed for up to 7 days.
Common side effects
Stinging or itching
Get medical help straight away if
- Rash or swelling
- No improvement
Be careful
External use only.
Other medicines and interactions
No important interactions when used on the skin.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Surface use is generally acceptable.
Bacitracin
What it is used for
Prevents infection in minor wounds.
How it works
An antibiotic ointment for small cuts and scrapes, often combined with neomycin and polymyxin.
How to take it
Apply a thin layer 1 to 3 times a day for up to 7 days.
Common side effects
Redness or itching
Get medical help straight away if
- Allergic rash
- Wound becomes more painful or red
Be careful
External use only; can cause skin allergy.
Other medicines and interactions
No important interactions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Surface use is generally acceptable.
Common questions
What is Neosporin?
Neosporin is a ointment/powder by GSK containing Neomycin + Polymyxin B + Bacitracin.
What is Neosporin used for?
Prevents or treats bacterial infection in minor cuts and wounds. Prevents infection in minor wounds. Prevents infection in minor wounds.
How should I take Neosporin?
Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day for no more than 7 to 10 days. Apply or instil as directed for up to 7 days. Apply a thin layer 1 to 3 times a day for up to 7 days. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.
What are the side effects of Neosporin?
Common side effects include: Skin allergy (contact dermatitis) is common, Stinging or itching, Redness or itching. Get medical help straight away for: Rash spreads or worsens, hearing changes with ear drops in a perforated eardrum, Rash or swelling, no improvement, Allergic rash, wound becomes more painful or red.
Does Neosporin need a prescription?
It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.
Can I take Neosporin in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Short skin use is generally acceptable; ask a doctor. Surface use is generally acceptable. Surface use is generally acceptable.
What are the substitutes for Neosporin?
We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.
Sources and further reading
- Neomycin: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Polymyxin B: NHS · MedlinePlus
- Bacitracin: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.
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