Bacitracin and Polymyxin B
Polysporin is a brand-name topical antibiotic medication used to prevent and treat minor skin infections. It is applied directly to the skin for minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and wounds to reduce the risk of bacterial infection and support healing. This over-the-counter product is intended for external use only on superficial skin injuries.
Polysporin is a topical antibiotic ointment used to prevent infections in minor skin wounds like cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 54955
- Generic
- Polysporin
- 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.
Polysporin is used to prevent bacterial infection in minor skin injuries including cuts, scrapes, minor burns, and abrasions. It is not intended for use on deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
Polysporin contains a combination of topical antibiotics (polymyxin B and bacitracin) that work together to inhibit the growth of susceptible bacteria on the skin's surface, helping to prevent wound infections while healing occurs.
For external use only; avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use on large areas of broken skin, for prolonged periods, or under occlusive dressings unless directed by a healthcare provider. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if the condition worsens or doesn't improve within a few days, or if a rash or allergic reaction develops.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy