Polysporin 500 unit-10,000 unit/gram topical ointment

Generic name:
Combination antibiotic - topical

This combination product is used to treat minor wounds (such as cuts, scrapes, burns) and to help prevent or treat mild skin infections. Minor skin infections and wounds usually heal without treatment, but some minor skin wounds may heal faster when an antibiotic is applied to the affected area. This product contains antibiotics that work by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria.

This medication is for use on the skin only. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands before using. Avoid getting this product in your eyes or inside the mouth. If this occurs, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use inside the nose unless directed by your doctor.

Clean and dry the affected area as directed. If you are using the ointment or cream, apply a small amount of the medication in a thin layer on the skin, usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Rub in gently if your condition permits. If you are using the powder, apply a light dusting of the powder on the area. Cover with a bandage if directed to do so. Wash your hands after use.

Do not use large amounts of this medication, apply it more often, or use it for a longer period than directed. Your condition may not improve faster, and the risk for side effects may be increased.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse after 1 week. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Burning, redness, or irritation of the skin may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• balance/hearing problems
• small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)

Rarely, use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a fungal infection or a different bacterial skin infection. Contact your doctor if you notice any new unusual skin symptoms (such as scaling, swelling, hot skin) while using this medication. A different medication may need to be used.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• other skin conditions (including eczema, viral skin infections such as shingles, chickenpox, cold sores)

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

If your doctor has prescribed this product for you, do not share it with others.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, use it for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.

If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not apply more than the usual amount to make up for the missed dose.

Refer to storage information from the manufacturer. If you have questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Do not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.