Is Neosporin safe to use while pregnant. What are the risks of using Neosporin during pregnancy. Are there alternative treatments for minor cuts and scrapes during pregnancy. How does Neosporin work and what precautions should pregnant women take.

Understanding Neosporin and Its Components

Neosporin is a widely used over-the-counter topical antibiotic ointment designed to prevent and treat minor skin infections. To fully grasp its potential effects during pregnancy, it’s crucial to understand its key components:

• Neomycin sulfate
• Polymyxin B sulfate
• Bacitracin zinc

Each of these antibiotics works in different ways to combat bacterial infections, providing a broad spectrum of antimicrobial action. Neomycin inhibits protein synthesis in bacteria, polymyxin B disrupts bacterial cell membranes, and bacitracin interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis.

How Effective Is Neosporin?

Neosporin is effective against a range of microorganisms, including:

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococci (including Streptococcus pneumoniae)
• Escherichia coli
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Klebsiella/Enterobacter species
• Neisseria species
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa

However, it’s important to note that Neosporin does not provide adequate coverage against Serratia marcescens.

Pregnancy Safety Considerations for Neosporin Use

When it comes to using Neosporin during pregnancy, there are several factors to consider:

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While Neosporin is generally considered safe for topical use, pregnant women should be aware of potential risks:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may develop skin sensitization to the antibiotics in Neosporin, particularly neomycin sulfate.
• Antibiotic resistance: Prolonged use of topical antibiotics can lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.
• Systemic absorption: Although minimal, there is a possibility of systemic absorption when applied to large areas of broken skin.

FDA Pregnancy Category

The FDA has not assigned a specific pregnancy category to Neosporin. This lack of categorization doesn’t necessarily indicate a risk, but rather a lack of sufficient human studies to determine absolute safety during pregnancy.

Guidelines for Using Neosporin While Pregnant

If you’re considering using Neosporin during pregnancy, follow these guidelines:

1. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially for larger wounds or if you have concerns.
2. Use only as directed and for short periods.
3. Apply to small areas only to minimize potential systemic absorption.
4. Monitor for signs of allergic reactions or skin irritation.
5. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse effects.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Pregnant women should seek medical attention if they experience:

• Signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus)
• Allergic reactions (itching, rash, or difficulty breathing)
• Wounds that don’t heal within a few days

Alternative Treatments for Minor Wounds During Pregnancy

For pregnant women who prefer to avoid Neosporin or any antibiotic ointment, there are several alternative treatments for minor cuts and scrapes:

Natural Remedies

• Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties
• Aloe vera: Soothes skin and may promote healing
• Calendula: Has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties

Over-the-Counter Alternatives

• Petroleum jelly: Keeps the wound moist and protected
• Hydrocolloid dressings: Promote moist wound healing
• Antiseptic solutions: Such as hydrogen peroxide or iodine (use sparingly)

Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any alternative treatments during pregnancy.

Proper Wound Care During Pregnancy

Regardless of whether you use Neosporin or an alternative treatment, proper wound care is essential during pregnancy:

1. Clean the wound thoroughly with mild soap and water.
2. Apply gentle pressure to stop any bleeding.
3. Apply your chosen treatment sparingly.
4. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage if necessary.
5. Change the dressing daily or when it becomes wet or dirty.
6. Monitor the wound for signs of infection.

Importance of Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for preventing infections during pregnancy. Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after wound care, to reduce the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.

Understanding the Risks of Untreated Infections During Pregnancy

While it’s important to be cautious about using any medication during pregnancy, it’s equally important to understand the risks of untreated infections:

Potential Complications

• Spread of infection to deeper tissues
• Systemic infection (sepsis)
• Increased risk of preterm labor
• Potential harm to the developing fetus

These risks underscore the importance of proper wound care and seeking medical attention when necessary.

The Role of the Immune System During Pregnancy

Understanding how pregnancy affects the immune system can provide context for wound healing and infection risk:

Changes in Immune Function

Pregnancy induces a unique immune state that balances fetal tolerance with maternal protection. This can result in:

• Increased susceptibility to certain infections
• Altered inflammatory responses
• Changes in wound healing processes

These changes highlight the importance of vigilant wound care and infection prevention during pregnancy.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While minor cuts and scrapes can often be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical advice is necessary:

Signs That Warrant Medical Attention

• Deep or gaping wounds
• Wounds that won’t stop bleeding
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus)
• Fever or chills
• Wounds from rusty objects or animal bites

When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult your healthcare provider.

Discussing Wound Care with Your Obstetrician

Your obstetrician can provide personalized advice on wound care during pregnancy, taking into account your individual health status and any pregnancy-related complications. They can also recommend safe treatments and monitor for any potential issues.

Maintaining Skin Health During Pregnancy

Preventing minor skin injuries is an important aspect of prenatal care. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy:

Skincare Tips for Pregnant Women

• Stay hydrated to keep skin supple
• Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products
• Protect your skin from sun damage
• Avoid hot showers or baths that can dry out skin
• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

By taking good care of your skin, you can reduce the likelihood of cuts, scrapes, and other minor injuries that might require treatment.

Managing Common Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can bring about various skin changes that may affect wound healing or increase the risk of minor injuries:

• Stretch marks: Keep skin moisturized to reduce itching and potential scratching
• Acne: Avoid harsh treatments and consult your doctor for safe options
• Increased skin sensitivity: Be gentle when cleansing or applying products
• Melasma: Protect your skin from sun exposure to prevent worsening

Understanding and managing these changes can help maintain overall skin health during pregnancy.

The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Wound Healing

Nutrition plays a crucial role in wound healing, especially during pregnancy when your body’s demands are increased. Here are some key nutrients that support wound healing:

Essential Nutrients for Wound Healing

• Protein: Necessary for tissue repair and regeneration
• Vitamin C: Supports collagen production and immune function
• Zinc: Crucial for protein synthesis and cell proliferation
• Vitamin A: Supports epithelial tissue formation
• Iron: Essential for oxygen transport to healing tissues

Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients through a balanced diet or prenatal supplements can support your body’s natural healing processes.

Foods That Promote Wound Healing

Incorporate these foods into your diet to support wound healing:

• Lean meats and fish (for protein and zinc)
• Citrus fruits and berries (for vitamin C)
• Leafy green vegetables (for iron and vitamins)
• Nuts and seeds (for healthy fats and minerals)
• Whole grains (for B vitamins and energy)

Remember to discuss any significant dietary changes with your healthcare provider to ensure they align with your pregnancy needs.

Understanding the Risks of Antibiotic Resistance

While topical antibiotics like Neosporin can be effective for treating minor wounds, it’s important to understand the broader context of antibiotic use and resistance:

The Global Challenge of Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern worldwide, with implications for both individual and public health. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to this problem, even with topical applications.

Responsible Use of Topical Antibiotics

To help combat antibiotic resistance:

• Use topical antibiotics only when necessary
• Follow the recommended duration of use
• Don’t use antibiotics for viral infections
• Practice good hygiene to prevent infections in the first place

By using antibiotics responsibly, we can help preserve their effectiveness for future generations.

The Future of Wound Care: Emerging Technologies and Treatments

As medical science advances, new approaches to wound care are emerging that may provide safer and more effective alternatives for pregnant women:

Innovative Wound Care Solutions

• Antimicrobial peptides: Natural compounds that fight infection without promoting resistance
• Smart bandages: Dressings that can detect and respond to infection
• Growth factor therapies: Treatments that stimulate the body’s natural healing processes
• Stem cell therapies: Potential for accelerated wound healing and tissue regeneration

While many of these technologies are still in development, they offer exciting possibilities for the future of wound care, particularly for sensitive populations like pregnant women.

The Importance of Ongoing Research

Continued research into wound care and pregnancy is crucial for developing safer, more effective treatments. As our understanding of the complex interplay between pregnancy, the immune system, and wound healing grows, we can expect to see more tailored approaches to managing minor injuries during pregnancy.

In conclusion, while Neosporin can be used during pregnancy with caution, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks and consider alternative treatments when appropriate. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice on wound care during pregnancy. By staying informed and taking a proactive approach to skin health and wound prevention, you can navigate this aspect of prenatal care with confidence.

Neosporin: Package Insert – Drugs.com

Package insert / product label
Generic name: neomycin sulfate, polymyxin B sulfate and bacitracin zinc
Dosage form: Ophthalmic Ointment
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 21, 2022.

On This Page

• Description
• Clinical Pharmacology
• Indications and Usage
• Contraindications
• Warnings
• Precautions
• Patient Counseling Information
• Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
• Dosage and Administration
• How Supplied/Storage and Handling

Description

Neosporin OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT (neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment) is a sterile antimicrobial ointment for ophthalmic use. Each gram contains: neomycin sulfate equivalent to 3.5 mg neomycin base, polymyxin B sulfate equivalent to 10,000 polymyxin B units, bacitracin zinc equivalent to 400 bacitracin units, and white petrolatum, q. s.

Neomycin sulfate is the sulfate salt of neomycin B and C, which are produced by the growth of Streptomyces fradiae Waksman (Fam. Streptomycetaceae). It has a potency equivalent of not less than 600 µg of neomycin standard per mg, calculated on an anhydrous basis. The structural formulae are:

Polymyxin B sulfate is the sulfate salt of polymyxin B1 and B2, which are produced by the growth of Bacillus polymyxa (Prazmowski) Migula (Fam. Bacillaceae). It has a potency of not less than 6,000 polymyxin B units per mg, calculated on an anhydrous basis. The structural formulae are:

Bacitracin zinc is the zinc salt of bacitracin, a mixture of related cyclic polypeptides (mainly bacitracin A) produced by the growth of an organism of the licheniformis group of Bacillus subtilis var Tracy. It has a potency of not less than 40 bacitracin units per mg. The structural formula is:

Clinical Pharmacology

A wide range of antibacterial action is provided by the overlapping spectra of neomycin, polymyxin B sulfate, and bacitracin.

Neomycin is bactericidal for many gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It is an aminoglycoside antibiotic which inhibits protein synthesis by binding with ribosomal RNA and causing misreading of the bacterial genetic code.

Polymyxin B is bactericidal for a variety of gram-negative organisms. It increases the permeability of the bacterial cell membrane by interacting with the phospholipid components of the membrane.

Bacitracin is bactericidal for a variety of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis by inhibition of the regeneration of phospholipid receptors involved in peptidoglycan synthesis.

Microbiology: Neomycin sulfate, polymyxin B sulfate, and bacitracin zinc together are considered active against the following microorganisms: Staphylococcus aureus, streptococci including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella/Enterobacter species, Neisseria species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The product does not provide adequate coverage against Serratia marcescens.

Indications and Usage

Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment is indicated for the topical treatment of superficial infections of the external eye and its adnexa caused by susceptible bacteria. Such infections encompass conjunctivitis, keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis, blepharitis and blepharoconjunctivitis.

Contraindications

Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment is contraindicated in individuals who have shown hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Warnings

NOT FOR INJECTION INTO THE EYE. Neosporin OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT should never be directly introduced into the anterior chamber of the eye. Ophthalmic ointments may retard corneal wound healing.

Topical antibiotics, particularly neomycin sulfate, may cause cutaneous sensitization. A precise incidence of hypersensitivity reactions (primarily skin rash) due to topical antibiotics is not known. The manifestations of sensitization to topical antibiotics are usually itching, reddening, and edema of the conjunctiva and eyelid. A sensitization reaction may manifest simply as a failure to heal. During long-term use of topical antibiotic products, periodic examination for such signs is advisable, and the patient should be told to discontinue the product if they are observed. Symptoms usually subside quickly on withdrawing the medication. Application of products containing these ingredients should be avoided for the patient thereafter (see PRECAUTIONS: General).

Precautions

General

As with other antibiotic preparations, prolonged use of Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms including fungi. If superinfection occurs, appropriate measures should be initiated.

Bacterial resistance to Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment may also develop. If purulent discharge, inflammation, or pain become aggravated, the patient should discontinue use of the medication and consult a physician.

There have been reports of bacterial keratitis associated with the use of topical ophthalmic products in multiple-dose containers which have been inadvertently contaminated by patients, most of whom had a concurrent corneal disease or a disruption of the ocular epithelial surface (see PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients).

Allergic cross-reactions may occur which could prevent the use of any or all of the following antibiotics for the treatment of future infections: kanamycin, paromomycin, streptomycin, and possibly gentamicin.

Information for Patients

Patients should be instructed to avoid allowing the tip of the dispensing container to contact the eye, eyelid, fingers, or any other surface. The use of this product by more than one person may spread infection.

Patients should also be instructed that ocular products, if handled improperly, can become contaminated by common bacteria known to cause ocular infections. Serious damage to the eye and subsequent loss of vision may result from using contaminated products (see PRECAUTIONS: General).

If the condition persists or gets worse, or if a rash or allergic reaction develops, the patient should be advised to stop use and consult a physician. Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of the listed ingredients.

Keep tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term studies in animals to evaluate carcinogenic or mutagenic potential have not been conducted with polymyxin B sulfate or bacitracin. Treatment of cultured human lymphocytes in vitrowith neomycin increased the frequency of chromosome aberrations at the highest concentration (80 µg/mL) tested; however, the effects of neomycin on carcinogenesis and mutagenesis in humans are unknown.

Polymyxin B has been reported to impair the motility of equine sperm, but its effects on male or female fertility are unknown. No adverse effects on male or female fertility, litter size or survival were observed in rabbits given bacitracin zinc 100 gm/ton of diet.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic Effects

Pregnancy Category C. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with neomycin sulfate, polymyxin B sulfate, or bacitracin, It is also not known whether Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions have occurred with the anti-infective components of Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment. The exact incidence is not known. Reactions occurring most often are allergic sensitization reactions including itching, swelling, and conjunctival erythema (see WARNINGS). More serious hypersensivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported rarely.

Local irritation on instillation has also been reported.

Dosage and Administration

Apply the ointment every 3 or 4 hours for 7 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

How Supplied

Tube of 1/8 oz (3.5 g) with ophthalmic tip (NDC 0081-0732-86).

Caution: Federal law prohibits dispensing without a prescription.

Store at 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F).

Manufactured by:

Burroughs Wellcome Inc.

Kirkland; Que., Canada H9H 4J4 for

BURROUGHS WELLCOME CO.

Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

Neosporin neomycin sulfate, polymyxin b sulfate and bacitracin zinc ointment

Product Information Product Type HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL Item Code (Source) NDC:0081-0732 Route of Administration OPHTHALMIC DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength neomycin sulfate (neomycin) neomycin 3. 5 ug in 1 g polymyxin B sulfate (polymyxin B) polymyxin B 10000 in 1 g bacitracin zinc (bacitracin) bacitracin 400 in 1 g

Inactive Ingredients Ingredient Name Strength white petrolatum

Packaging # Item Code Package Description 1 NDC:0081-0732-86 3.5 g (3.5 GRAM) in 1 TUBE

Burroughs Wellcome Inc.

Frequently asked questions

• Can you buy antibiotics over the counter?

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Patient resources

• Drug Information
• Neomycin, polymyxin b, and bacitracin (Ophthalmic) (Advanced Reading)

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Other brands

Neo-Polycin

Related treatment guides

• Conjunctivitis, Bacterial
• Blepharitis
• Blepharoconjunctivitis
• Hordeolum
• Keratitis
• Keratoconjunctivitis

Medical Disclaimer

Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to bacitracin, neomycin, or polymyxin B.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• chronic ear infections; or
• a ruptured (torn) eardrum.

It is not known whether bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical should not be used on a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

A rare but serious side effect of neomycin is hearing loss, which has occurred in people using other forms of neomycin. It is unlikely that you would absorb enough of this medicine through your skin to cause this effect. Call your doctor at once if you notice any changes in your hearing.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe redness or irritation, swelling, pus, oozing, or other signs of infection.

Common side effects may include:

• mild itching or rash; or
• minor skin irritation after using the medicine.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical)) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is not known whether bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

Do not take by mouth. Bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B topical is for use only on your skin. Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Avoid applying other creams, lotions, ointments, or other medicated skin products to the same areas you treat with bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

Use Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical)) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical))?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical)),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Neosporin (Bacitracin, Neomycin, And Polymyxin B (Topical)), call 911

911

Neomycin and Polymyxin B | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Medication

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Provided by Lexicomp ^® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: Canada

Neosporin Irrigating Solution

What is this drug used for?

• This drug is used to flush the bladder.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

• If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
• If you have a ruptured bladder.
• If you have recently had bladder surgery.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

• Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
• Perform urine tests as directed by your doctor.
• Do not take this drug for longer than the period of time prescribed by your doctor.
• If you are 65 years of age or older, use this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
• If the patient is a child, use this drug with caution. Children may have a higher risk of some side effects.
• When used during pregnancy, the drug may have a harmful effect on the fetus. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. It is necessary to consult whether the drug poses any risk to the child.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be associated with serious side effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly in combination with fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Hearing change.
• Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine produced.
• Muscle weakness.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Talk to your doctor or get medical help if these or any other side effects bother you or don’t go away:

• Bladder irritation.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

• Do not take this medicine by mouth (by mouth). Only for washing the bladder.

What if I miss a dose of a drug?

• This drug will be given in a health facility.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

• This drug will be given to you in a hospital or doctor’s office. You will not keep it at home.

General information about medicines

• If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
• Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
• Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.

Last revision date

2021-10-25

Copyright

© UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors, 2023. All rights reserved.

Date last updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

What are the similarities and differences between Levomekol and Baneocin

When an infection gets into abrasions, cuts and other skin lesions, the process of purulent inflammation begins. If the body’s own defenders can no longer cope, then heavy artillery is used – antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs. Levomikol and Baneocin are precisely from the category of drugs that help the body cope with the infection. And what are these means, how do they differ, which of them and when is it better to use, it is worth figuring out.

Baneocin – an antibacterial agent from Europe

Austrian-made drug Baneocin became known in Ukraine relatively recently. On the shelves of pharmacies, it is presented in two forms: powder and ointment. It contains two antibiotics – Bacitracinum and Neomycinum, one of which destroys the membrane of pathogenic microorganisms, and the second stops the production of protein in their cells. Bacteria cease to multiply, develop, as a result of which they die. The amount of substances in both forms is the same.

The antibacterial substances included in Baneocin are active against such pathogenic bacteria as:

• streptococci;
• staphylococci;
• Haemophilus influenzae;
• herpes virus, etc.

Bactericidal efficacy of Levomekol ointment

Levomekol ointment produced by a domestic manufacturer has long been known to Ukrainian consumers and is in great demand. This is due to its effectiveness, which is due to the combination of the antibiotic chloramphenicol and the wound healing drug methyluracil. Methyluracil promotes skin healing and restoration. The antibiotic suppresses infection caused by pathogenic microbes such as:

• gonococci;
• mengococci;
• shigella;
• Haemophilus influenzae;
• salmonella.

What the two drugs have in common

Having antibiotics in their composition, Levomekol and Baneocin work in the same direction – the fight against infection in damaged tissues. Despite the fact that the active substances are different, they effectively act against the same groups of microorganisms. Both drugs practically do not cause negative consequences, with the exception of individual characteristics.

What are the features of drugs Baneocin and Levomekol

If we consider the drugs for which of them copes with the treatment better, then this would be inappropriate. Both drugs perfectly solve the problem. But there are a number of differences that are important to consider before using them.

Levomekol, in addition to the destruction of pathogenic microflora, helps to accelerate tissue repair. This is due to the presence of methyluracil in it. Ointment is more often used in the treatment of places after operations, extensive burns, inflammation. The therapeutic effect is achieved by applying the ointment directly to the wound or by impregnating sterile bandages applied to the inflammation site. Another important feature of the product can be called polyethylene glycol, an additional substance that is part of the ointment. Being a binding component for the main substances, in the course of treatment it plays the role of an adsorbent for ichor and pus. Contraindications include children under 1 year of age.

Recommendations for Baneocin contain the following contraindications. Although the drug is not absorbed into the skin, applied in large quantities over large areas, it can penetrate the bloodstream and cause an overdose. This is fraught with poisoning of the body, disruption of the kidneys, liver and hearing. Ointment or powder is applied to the wound in a thin layer. The amount of funds per day is limited to 1 gram. Baneocin has no age indicator. It is used in pediatrics from birth.

What drug and when is it better to use

As a panacea for bacterial infections on damaged skin, both preparations contain antibiotics. Therefore, it is important to carefully approach the issue of treatment.

When it comes to a small cut, burn or an unsuccessfully squeezed pimple, you can safely seek the help of Baneocin. And here there is a nuance. The wound, which is covered with a crust, is best treated with Baneocin in the form of an ointment. The role of connecting components for it is played by paraffin and lanolin. These substances help soften the dried layer and accelerate the penetration of antibiotics into the focus of inflammation. In the powdered form of the drug, the active substances are bound by purified corn starch. Therefore, it will be more convenient to use powder on wet surfaces of damage.