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Double Antibiotic

Generic name: bacitracin and polymyxin B topical [BAS-i-TRAY-sin-and-POL-ee-MIX-in-B]
Brand names: Double Antibiotic, Polysporin, and Simply Neosporin
Drug class: Topical antibacterial

What is Double Antibiotic?

The combination medicine Double Antibiotic is used to prevent infection from cuts, scrapes, and/or skin burns. Double antibiotics can also be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Double Antibiotic

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.

If:

  • You need to take this medication for more than one week.
  • Your condition continues or worsens.
  • A rash or another allergic reaction occurs.

You may experience less serious side effects or none at all. There may be other side effects. Call your doctor if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the Food and Drug Administration by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report potential dangers.

Warnings

Use exactly as directed on the package and label. Follow the directions on the label and package.

Before you take this drug

Double antibiotics should not be used if you have an allergy to them. Double antibiotics should not be used in the eyes or on large parts of the body.

If you suffer from:

  • Deep or puncture wounds
  • Animal bites
  • Serious burns

Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing. Do not administer this medicine to an infant without consulting a doctor.

Similar/related drugs

Bactrim, sulfamethoxazole, trimethoprim, tetracycline topical, Bacitracin topical, Bactrim DS, and Neosporin

How to take Double Antibiotic?

Follow the instructions on the label or those prescribed by your doctor. A double antibiotic should be applied to clean hands. Double antibiotics can be applied to the affected area from 1 to 3 times daily. This medicine should be used only after cleaning the affected area. You can cover the area where you apply this medicine with a sterile dressing. Double antibiotics should not be used for more than 1 week, unless you are told by your doctor to do so. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If it is near time for your next dose, skip any missed dosage and do not apply both doses at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Should anyone accidently swallow medication, seek emergency medical attention immediately or call Poison Help immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Do not use other medications in areas treated with Double Antibiotic unless you have been prescribed by your doctor.

Interaction with other drug

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies.