What is an example of a triple antibiotic ointment?

Triple Antibiotic Ointment Examples

Triple antibiotic ointment typically contains bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate as the active ingredients. 1

Common Commercial Examples

• TopCare Maximum Strength Triple Antibiotic Ointment (contains bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate) 1
• Some formulations also include pain relief ingredients such as pramoxine HCl 1

Composition and Mechanism

• The standard triple antibiotic formulation contains:

  • Bacitracin: Interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis 2
  • Neomycin sulfate: Aminoglycoside that inhibits protein synthesis 3
  • Polymyxin B sulfate: Disrupts bacterial cell membranes 3

• This combination provides synergistic antimicrobial activity against common wound pathogens 3

• The three antibiotics work together to provide a broad spectrum of activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria 2

Clinical Applications

• Used for prevention of infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns 2
• Effective against common skin pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 4
• Can eradicate resident bacteria through multiple layers of the stratum corneum 5
• Shown to be effective in preventing streptococcal pyoderma when applied to minor skin trauma 6

Proper Usage

• Clean the wound thoroughly before application 7
• Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected area 7
• Cover with a clean, dry bandage after application 7
• Keep draining wounds covered with clean, dry bandages 7

Important Considerations

• Not recommended for:

  • Animal bites 7
  • Serious burns 7
  • Large areas of the body 7
  • Long-term use (beyond 1 week without medical supervision) 7

• Resistance to triple antibiotic ointment remains relatively rare despite decades of use 4

• Triple antibiotic ointment maintains effectiveness against mupirocin-resistant strains 4

Pediatric Considerations

• For children with minor skin infections, triple antibiotic ointment is an option 8
• Mupirocin 2% topical ointment can be considered as an alternative 8

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Failure to clean the wound properly before application reduces effectiveness 7
• Risk of contact dermatitis, particularly with neomycin component 9
• Not applying a clean bandage after ointment application may reduce effectiveness 7