Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin, Ophthalmic

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: antibiotic

Generic and brand names: neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin, ophthalmic; AK-Spore Ointment; Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment; Ocutricin Ophthalmic Ointment

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is used in the eyes to treat infections.

What should my health care provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your health care provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any antibiotic.

Tell your health care provider if you have herpes, chickenpox, or a virus infection of the eye.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

How do I use it?

This medicine is available in two forms: eyedrops and an ointment. Use the medicine exactly as directed by your health care provider. Do not use more of it or use it more often than directed. Use the medicine until your health care provider tells you to stop.

Wash your hands thoroughly before applying medicines to your eyes. Tilt your head back and look up. Gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pouch.

If you have the eyedrops, hold the dropper directly above your eye and squeeze a drop of the medicine into the pouch. Close your eyes for a minute or two and with a fingertip press gently on the inside corner of your eye to keep the medicine from draining out.

If you have the ointment, hold the tube in your hand for a minute or two to warm the medicine so it will flow easily from the tube. When you open the tube for the first time, squeeze a little out and throw it away because it may be dry. Pull down your lower eyelid to form a pouch. Squeeze a 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch ribbon of ointment into the pouch. After you apply the ointment, close your eyes and roll them in all directions to spread the medicine around.

To keep from contaminating the medicine, do not let the tip of the dropper or tube touch your eye or any other surface. After use, put the cap on tightly. Do not use eyedrops that have become discolored.

Your vision will be blurred for a little while after using the ointment. Avoid activities that require good vision until you can see clearly.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your health care provider.

What should I watch out for?

Do not use this medicine for any other eye condition unless your health care provider approves. Do not share eye medicines with others. Do not rub your eyes.

If your eyes do not get better in a few days or if they get worse, contact your health care provider.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your health care provider if you can continue to wear them while you are using this medicine. Wait at least 15 minutes after using this medicine before putting in contacts.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your health care provider right away): Any new redness, irritation, or swelling that develops while you are using the medicine; rash; change in your vision; eye pain.

Other: Temporary burning or stinging feeling.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported. However, be sure to tell your health care provider if you are using any other eye medicines. You may need to allow some time between doses of the different medicines.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.