Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: POLYSPORIN versus SSD AF.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: POLYSPORIN versus SSD AF.
POLYSPORIN vs SSD AF
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
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.
Silver sulfadiazine exerts bactericidal activity by releasing silver ions that bind to bacterial DNA and cell wall components, causing disruption of cellular respiration and DNA replication. It also inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis via the sulfadiazine component.
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.
Apply a thin layer topically once or twice daily to affected area.
None Documented
None Documented
Polymyxin B: 6–7 hours (impaired renal function: prolonged). Bacitracin: 1.5 hours (topical; not systemically absorbed).
Terminal elimination half-life is 6–8 hours; clinically, this supports twice-daily dosing in most patients.
Polysporin (polymyxin B/bacitracin) ophthalmic/otic/topical: Minimal systemic absorption. Renal elimination for absorbed fraction: <1% of dose.
Renal: ~10% as unchanged drug; biliary/fecal: ~90% as metabolites.
Category C
Category C
Topical Antibiotic
Topical Antibiotic