Double Antibiotic Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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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, Simply Neosporin
Drug class: Topical antibiotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 16, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Double Antibiotic?

Double Antibiotic (for the skin) is a combination medicine used to help prevent infections from cuts, scraps, and/or burns.

Double Antibiotic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

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

## Before taking this medicine

You should not use Double Antibiotic if you are allergic to it.

Do not use Double Antibiotic in your eyes and over large areas of your body.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Double Antibiotic is safe to use if you have:

- deep or puncture wounds;

- animal bites; or

- serious burns.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

## How should I use Double Antibiotic?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Wash your hands before and after applying Double Antibiotic.

Double Antibiotic is applied on the affected area 1 to 3 times daily. Clean the affected area before using this medicine. The area where the medicine is applied may be covered with a sterile bandage.

Do not use Double Antibiotic longer than 1 week unless your doctor tells you to.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

## What should I avoid while using Double Antibiotic?

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Double Antibiotic unless your doctor tells you to.

## Double Antibiotic side effects

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

Stop using Double Antibiotic and call your doctor at once if:

- you need to use this medicine longer than 1 week;

- your condition persists or gets worse; or

- a rash or other allergic reaction occurs.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

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.

Bacitracin / polymyxin b topical side effects (more detail)

## Related/similar drugs

Bactrim, sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim, tetracycline topical, bacitracin topical, Bactrim DS, Neosporin

## What other drugs will affect Double Antibiotic?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

## Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## More about bacitracin / polymyxin b topical

- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (2)
- Side effects
- Drug class: topical antibiotics

### Patient resources

- Drug Information
- Bacitracin and polymyxin b Topical application (Advanced Reading)

#### Other brands

Polysporin First Aid Antibiotic Ointment, Simply Neosporin

### Related treatment guides

- Bacterial Skin Infection

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.01.