Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: NEOSPORIN versus POLYSPORIN.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: NEOSPORIN versus POLYSPORIN.
NEOSPORIN vs POLYSPORIN
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Neosporin is a combination of three antibiotics: neomycin (aminoglycoside) inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to 30S ribosomal subunit; polymyxin B (polymyxin) disrupts bacterial cell membrane integrity; bacitracin (polypeptide) inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by interfering with dephosphorylation of the lipid carrier.
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.
Apply a thin layer topically to the affected area 1-3 times daily. May be covered with a sterile bandage.
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
Variable based on severity of renal impairment. Normal renal function: 2-3 hours for neomycin (main component); polymyxin B: 4-6 hours. In anuria: half-life extends to 72-96 hours for neomycin.
Polymyxin B: 6–7 hours (impaired renal function: prolonged). Bacitracin: 1.5 hours (topical; not systemically absorbed).
Renal excretion accounts for >90% of elimination; primarily glomerular filtration with minimal tubular secretion. Small biliary/fecal elimination (<5%).
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