Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: BENZAMYCIN versus POLYSPORIN.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: BENZAMYCIN versus POLYSPORIN.
BENZAMYCIN vs POLYSPORIN
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
BENZAMYCIN (benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin) combines the keratolytic and antimicrobial actions of benzoyl peroxide with the antibacterial effect of clindamycin, a lincosamide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
Polysporin is a combination of polymyxin B and bacitracin. Polymyxin B disrupts bacterial cell membrane by binding to lipopolysaccharides, increasing permeability. Bacitracin inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by interfering with dephosphorylation of the lipid carrier in peptidoglycan synthesis.
Topical: Apply a thin layer to affected areas twice daily (morning and evening). Each gram contains 30 mg benzoyl peroxide and 30 mg erythromycin.
Apply a thin layer topically to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily. If using the ointment, cover with a sterile bandage if desired.
None Documented
None Documented
2.5-3.5 hours in adults with normal renal function; may be prolonged to 4-6 hours in patients with hepatic impairment
Polymyxin B: 6–7 hours (impaired renal function: prolonged). Bacitracin: 1.5 hours (topical; not systemically absorbed).
Renal excretion: ~70% (30% as unchanged drug, 40% as active metabolite N-desmethylclindamycin); biliary/fecal: ~30%
Polysporin (polymyxin B/bacitracin) ophthalmic/otic/topical: Minimal systemic absorption. Renal elimination for absorbed fraction: <1% of dose.
Category C
Category C
Topical Antibiotic
Topical Antibiotic