Neosporin is a brand of first-aid antibiotic creams, ointments, and solutions that are designed to prevent infection and promote healing for minor wounds, cuts, and burns. Neosporin products are over-the-counter (OTC) and available without a prescription.
The brand was launched in the 1950s by Johnson & Johnson.
Originally, Neosporin consisted of three antibiotics, neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin, which were first combined in the 1940s.
The brand has since developed additional products such as pain relief formulas and wound cleansers.
Polysporin is a direct competitor of Neosporin, offering similar antibiotic ointments and creams for minor cuts, wounds, and burns. Polysporin also includes pain-relieving ingredients.
Bactine is another brand that offers first-aid antiseptics and pain relief products. Unlike Neosporin, Bactine does not contain antibiotics but instead uses benzalkonium chloride as its active ingredient.
Cortizone 10 is a brand that specializes in anti-itch creams and ointments. While not specifically designed for wound care, it may be used to relieve itching associated with minor skin irritations like insect bites or rashes.
This is the original formula and still the most common product in the Neosporin line. It contains neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin to prevent infection and promote healing in minor wounds, cuts, and burns.
This product includes pramoxine hydrochloride, a pain reliever, in addition to the three antibiotics. It is designed to provide relief from pain associated with minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
This product contains the same active ingredients as the ointment but in a cream formulation. It is designed for those who prefer a cream over an ointment.
Yes, but it should not be used on children under 2 years of age unless directed by a doctor.
Yes, Neosporin can be used on the face, but it should not be used in or near the eyes.
Yes, Neosporin products have an expiration date and should not be used after that date.
Yes, Neosporin is designed to prevent infection and promote healing in minor wounds, cuts, and burns. However, it is not intended for use on deep cuts or puncture wounds.
Yes, some people may be allergic to the antibiotics in Neosporin. It is important to stop using it if you experience redness, swelling, or rash after application.