Polymyxin B
Polycin is a topical antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections of the eye and surrounding areas. It contains polymyxin B (often combined with bacitracin) and works by killing susceptible bacteria. This medication is typically prescribed for superficial eye infections caused by gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
Polycin is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat bacterial eye infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 219307
- Generic
- Polycin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Polycin is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye and eyelids, including conjunctivitis and other superficial eye infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
Polycin contains polymyxin B, which works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, causing the bacteria to die. When combined with bacitracin, it provides broad-spectrum coverage against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
Polycin is for topical ophthalmic use only and should not be injected into the eye. Patients should wash hands before use and avoid touching the tip of the tube to prevent contamination. Use should be limited to the prescribed duration to avoid antibiotic resistance. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve within a few days.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy