If you’ve ever had a minor scrape, cut, or burn, then you’re likely familiar with Neosporin first aid antibiotic ointment. This multipurpose medication can help speed healing and prevent infection. Here we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Neosporin, from what it is to how to use it properly. Read on for helpful tips on how to properly care for your wounds.
What is Neosporin?
Neosporin ointment is a combination drug used as a first aid antibiotic to stop infections from spreading to minor skin burns, scrapes, and wounds.
Only bacterial skin infections are prevented or treated by this medicine. Other skin infections, such as those brought on by fungus or viruses, cannot be treated with Neosporin. This medicine may be hazardous if taken orally.
Active Ingredients
Neosporin is an antibiotic that kills skin germs. It is a triple antibiotic comprised of the following:
Neomycin
An aminoglycoside antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin, lungs, blood, and digestive tract. It is also used to prevent infection in people who are having surgery. Neomycin is available as a cream, ointment, solution, and tablet.
Polymyxin B
Works by killing the bacteria or preventing them from growing. Polymyxin B is used to treat infections of the skin, lungs, urinary tract, and gastrointestinal tract. It is also used to treat:
- Sepsis – is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body.Â
- Meningitis – inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
Polymyxin B is available as a cream, ointment, solution, and tablet. It is usually applied to the skin or taken by mouth three to four times a day.
Bacitracin
Used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and burns and works by preventing bacteria from growing and multiplying. This helps to reduce the risk of infection.
Where Can I Use Neosporin?
Neosporin has a wide range of uses in treatment, including:
Minor cuts and scrapes
Neosporin can be applied to minor cuts and scrapes to promote healing and prevent infection.Â
Burns
Neosporin can be used to treat first-degree burns or superficial second-degree burns. It is important to seek medical attention for more serious burns.
Insect bites
Insect bites, such as those from mosquitoes or bees, can be treated with Neosporin.
Minor skin infections
Treatment for minor skin infections like impetigo with Neosporin is possible. However, it is important to see a doctor for more serious infections.
Preventing infection in wounds
To help lower the risk of infection in wounds, Neosporin can be used as a preventative measure. It is important to clean the wound before applying the ointment.
Surgical incisions
Neosporin can be used on surgical incisions to help prevent infection and promote healing. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions for care of the incision.
Diaper rash
Diaper rash is treatable with Neosporin. Clean the area and allow it to dry before applying the ointment.
Cracked lips
Neosporin can also be used to treat cracked lips. It is important to apply a thin layer of ointment to the lips.
Cold sores
Cold sores may be treated with Neosporin. Only apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area.
Sunburn
For the treatment of sunburn, Neosporin can also be used. Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area.
