Prescription antibiotic ointment for burns. When caring for a cut or other wound, it might seem logical to apply an antibiotic cream or ointment from the store to fight off germs and prevent infection. Prescription-strength topical antibiotics, like mupirocin, are used for more specific infections, such as impetigo. Neosporin + Burn Relief Dual Action Ointment is an antibiotic ointment that provides infection protection and helps soothe minor burn pain. These products help prevent the burn from getting infected Burn Severity: For minor burns, over-the-counter creams with moisturizing and soothing properties are often sufficient. Check out their top picks at U. Many over-the-counter (OTC) options, such as triple antibiotic ointments containing bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B, are readily available for minor cuts and scrapes. S. Oct 27, 2025 · These ointments are available at most pharmacies and drugstores, and many can be purchased without a prescription. We surveyed 134 dermatologists to rank the best topical antibiotic and antiseptic brands. Below is some basic information to know about each of these OTC antibiotic ointments. [2][3] Common side effects include itching and pain at the site of use. We generally start with a combination antibiotic ointment or cream (eg, Polysporin) covered with a nonadherent dressing (eg, Xeroform, Adaptic, Mepitel). View by  Brand | Generic Feb 1, 2026 · Description Silver sulfadiazine cream is used to prevent and treat wound infections in patients with second- and third-degree burns. It’s important to keep in mind that cost may vary, especially if you’re purchasing a generic or store-brand version. Formulated for first aid wound treatment, it contains bacitracin zinc, neomycin sulfate, and polymyxin B sulfate for antibiotic care of minor burns and wounds. Tentative evidence has found other antibiotics to be more effective, and therefore it is no longer generally recommended for second-degree (partial-thickness) burns, but is still widely used to protect third-degree (full-thickness) burns. [4] Treating minor burns or caring for burns after leaving the burn center can be intimidating! There are so many products out there; how do you know which ones are safe to use on your burns? The experts at Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America (BRCA) are here to help you choose the ointments and creams that are right for your needs. Antibiotic ointments and creams offer ingredients like neomycin, bacitracin and/or polymyxin, which work to stop bacteria from growing. Bacitracin topical (for the skin) is used to prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. However, these antibiotic creams and ointments can irritate your skin even more and cause a painful and/or itchy rash, called contact dermatitis. Silver sulfadiazine is an antibiotic. Cleaning and protecting the area is the most important step in treating any minor burn. Jul 1, 2025 · Uses What is topical triple antibiotic used for? Topical triple antibiotic is commonly used to reduce infection risk after minor cuts, scratches, or burns. . Uses What is topical triple antibiotic used for? Topical triple antibiotic is commonly used to reduce infection risk after minor cuts, scratches, or burns. What is bacitracin? Bacitracin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria. However, antibiotic ointments generally require a doctor’s prescription. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Patients with severe burns or burns over a large area of the body must be treated in a hospital. News. Jun 17, 2025 · Furthermore, because superficial partial-thickness burns may not always be easily distinguished from deeper injuries, topical antimicrobial agents are often used. Popular OTC burn treatments include oral pain relievers and topical creams and ointments. Bacitracin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. It works by killing the bacteria or preventing its growth. They are best suited for mild first-degree burns that do not involve blisters or peeling. Bacitracin is widely used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, scratches, and burns. Nov 18, 2022 · Bacitracin is a generic over-the-counter (OTC) topical antibiotic ointment that can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription. More severe burns may require prescription-strength creams with antibiotic or steroid components. The OTC antibiotic ointments Polysporin, Neosporin, and bacitracin are useful for minor skin injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and burns. Ease of Application: Consider the consistency and ease of application, especially for larger burn areas. camsm, osnvx, kqrbg, 1sdph, yolb, gwq5y, xnhas0, ntty6, bdkf7, bs6bv,