Why polysporin versus neosporin

Mupirocin the generic name for Bactroban , is a prescription medication. Both are also good treatments. It is a myth that a wound needs to scab or dry out to heal. And avoid the Neosporin! Neosporin Lip Health contains white petrolatum, or petroleum jelly, the ingredient found in Vaseline. Similar to bacitracin and Neosporin is a brand-name product called Polysporin. Sign up for bacitracin price alerts and find out when the price changes!

Get price alerts. Both bacitracin and Neosporin have the same indication—for use as first aid to prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. A meta-analysis of topical antibiotics for the prevention of wound infections concluded that topical antibiotics were effective in lowering the risk of infections in uncomplicated wounds when compared to placebo or antiseptics such as hydrogen peroxide. However, the risk reduction was minimal compared to placebo and antiseptics. The authors of the study suggested that because of antibiotic resistance, topical antibiotics do have an important place, and antiseptics can be considered an alternative to topical antibiotics such as bacitracin or Neosporin.

Studies have not directly compared bacitracin to Neosporin. Interestingly, a JAMA study concluded that white petrolatum is a safe and effective wound care ointment. White petrolatum has an equally low infection rate and less risk for an allergic reaction when compared to bacitracin.

The best topical ointment is the one that works for you with the fewest reactions. It is also a good idea to keep a tube on hand as part of your first aid kit. Check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions on which antibiotic ointment is better for you, especially if you have a history of allergies to topical antibiotics or if your wound is deep or oozing, meaning that it could already be infected.

Occasionally, they may be covered in generic form by some plans. You can save money on bacitracin with a SingleCare card, but you will need your doctor to issue a prescription. Even though bacitracin is OTC, your pharmacist will have to process a prescription in order for a discount to apply.

Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. Comparison Uses Pros and cons Alternatives Summary Neosporin is a brand of triple-antibiotic ointment. Share on Pinterest People with weak immune systems may benefit from antibiotic ointments, as they can reduce the risk of infection.

Pros and cons. Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Costs associated with obesity may account for 3. Related Coverage. What to know about antibiotics and tooth infections. How to recognize and treat an infected wound. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. What to know about open wound care. Medically reviewed by Elaine K.

Luo, M. Can you drink alcohol with antibiotics? Can you get a yeast infection from antibiotics? According to Iodine , Polysporin is easy to use, but it may cause a skin rash in some people and can't be used for significant skin infections, animal bites, deep wounds, or serious burns.

It comes in a powder or an ointment. As for Neosporin, it is not for use in deep cuts or injuries, but you can use it to help treat pain, itching, and scars in specific formulations.

It comes in several forms, including ointment, cream, foam, and spray.