Difference between Neosporin and Polysporin

Neosporin and Polysporin

The discovery of antibiotics has been widely regarded as among one of the most glorious achievements in the field of health and medicine. Deaths that were due to complications brought about by bacteria are now steadily declining throughout the years since the first antibiotic was discovered. Scientists and doctors are now continuously looking for newer and safer antibiotics. With this positive news regarding the fight against bacteria, we are now slowly becoming aware of the potential of antibiotics for our survival.

Antibiotics, or sometimes referred to as antibacterial medications, are a class of medications that are designed to fight out and kill a wide range of pathogenic or harmful bacteria. They can either produce a bactericide or bacteriostatic effect, depending on the type of antibiotic used and the bacteria being addressed , or both. In a bactericide effect, the medication’s main function is to kill the bacteria, until such time that the body can repair itself and kill the rest of the harmful bacteria. A bacteriostatic effect indicates that the reproduction of bacteria is disrupted, thereby limiting their number until they can be controlled by our immune system.

Antibacterial medications can be given in different forms. It can be oral, rectal, intravenous, or in topical form. The method of administering antibiotics differs because some antibiotics can cause serious side-effects if not administered correctly. Among these forms, a topical application of antibiotics is easier to do and perform since it does not require elaborate measurements and a lot of considerations to think about. However, bear in mind though ,that you have to make sure that you are not allergic to some ingredients in a topical ointment. The most common antibiotic ointments are Neosporin and Polysporin, although they have some differences.

Neosporin, which is a popular antibacterial ointment, is primarily used to prevent open wounds from being infected ,thus, increase wound healing. It is also considered as a good antiseptic agent to prevent bacteria from accumulating in the wound area. Furthermore, it is popularly known as a ‘triple antibiotic ointment’, containing Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin. However, there are some people who are allergic to neomycin, thus, are given a polysporin.

Polysporin, is another topical antibacterial agent that works similarly as Neosporin. Thus, it also helps prevent open wounds from being infected and speeds up wound healing. It just differs in the active compounds used. It only contains Bacitracin and Polymyxin B. It is used as an alternative for those allergic to neomycin.

You can refer to a physician if you want to know more since only basic details are provided here.

Summary:

1. Antibiotics are used to treat bacteria through either a bacteriocidal or bacteriostatic effect.

2. Neosporin contains 3 active ingredients, Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin.

3. Polysporin contains 2 active ingredients only, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin.

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