Neo-Polycin

Generic name: bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B ophthalmic [ BAS-i-TRAY-sin, NEE-oh-MYE-sin, POL-ee-MIX-in-B-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 28, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Neo-Polycin?

Bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B are antibiotics that kill bacteria.

Neo-Polycin (for the eyes) is a combination medicine used to treat bacterial infections of the eye or eyelid.

Neo-Polycin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Neo-Polycin 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.

Neo-Polycin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe itching or watering of your eyes;

• eye pain; or

• eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection);

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.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to bacitracin, neomycin, or polymyxin B.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any antibiotic eye medication.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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

How should I use Neo-Polycin?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the ointment: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze a ribbon of ointment from the tube into this pocket. Blink your eye gently and then keep it closed for 1 or 2 minutes. Wipe excess ointment from your eyelashes using a clean tissue.

Do not touch the tip of the ointment tube or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated tube tip can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using this medicine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.

Related/similar drugs

prednisone, diclofenac ophthalmic, ciprofloxacin ophthalmic, azithromycin ophthalmic, triamcinolone, dexamethasone ophthalmic, levofloxacin ophthalmic, prednisolone ophthalmic, erythromycin ophthalmic, gentamicin ophthalmic

What happens if I miss a dose?

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

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Neo-Polycin is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Neo-Polycin?

This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect Neo-Polycin?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Frequently asked questions

• Can you buy antibiotics over the counter?

Further 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.

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

Medical Disclaimer

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