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Polysporin Ingredients

Polysporin is a commonly prescribed topical ointment for healing superficial eye and ear infections. These infections include conjunctivitis, keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis, blepharitis and blepharoconjunctivitis. In addition to treating ophthalmic and ear infections in humans, Polysporin is also used to treat ear infections in dogs.

  1. Bacitracin Zinc

    • The main ingredient in Polysporin is bacitracin zinc. Bacitracin is a group of polypeptide antibiotics. The antibiotics found in bacitracin are active against gram-positive bacteria including staphylococci, streptococci and clostridia. Bacitracin has a shelf life of approximately five years when it has been properly stored in the original packaging and stored below 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacitracin is found in topical creams, powders and solutions, topical and ophthalmic ointments and optic solutions.

    Polymyxin B Sulfate

    • Polymyxin B sulfate is also found in Polysporin. Polymyxin B sulfate is simply a polypeptide antibiotic that works by killing sensitive bacteria. Polypeptide antibiotics are considered to be too toxic for internal use, but are not toxic if used externally. Polymyxin B sulfate is not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. If Polymyxin B sulfate is used long-term, a second infection is possible.

    White Petrolatum

    • White petrolatum is also an ingredient in Polysporin. Petrolatum is referred to as a semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons that have been obtained from petroleum. In the United States, petrolatum is available for use as an active ingredient in many prescriptions and over-the-counter products. When petrolatum is used as an active ingredient in drugs, petrolatum is referred to as white petrolatum. White petrolatum is also used in barrier creams, hand and body creams, lip care sticks and hair care products.

    Polysporin Warnings

    • Individuals who have previously shown a hypersensitivity to any of the Polysporin components are to avoid using the ointment. Polysporin is not intended for injection into the eye. Prolonged use of Polysporin leads to an overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms that include fungi. Proper handling of the Polysporin applicator is also necessary to avoid contamination. General dosage of Polysporin is application of the ointment every three or four hours for a total of seven to 10 days, dependent upon the severity of the infection.

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