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Neosporin vs. Cortisporin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Neosporin (bacitracin/neomycin/polymyxin B) and neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone (formerly Cortisporin) are both used to treat infections, but they have different uses and formulations. Neosporin is a topical antibiotic ointment available over the counter, used to prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It combines three antibiotics to kill bacteria. In contrast, neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone is a prescription ear drop that treats outer ear infections and includes two antibiotics and a corticosteroid to reduce swelling and itching. While Neosporin is applied to the skin, neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone is specifically for the ears and should not be used in the eyes. Neosporin is convenient for minor skin injuries, whereas neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone is more specialized for ear infections and requires careful administration to avoid contamination. Both medications have generic versions available, making them more affordable.

Neosporin

 

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Cortisporin Otic

 

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Summary for Neosporin

Over-the-counter

Neosporin, sometimes known as "triple antibiotic," is a combination antibiotic ointment that contains three active ingredients: bacitracin, polymyxin B, and neomycin. Neosporin is used to help prevent skin infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, as these wounds heal. But it's not meant to treat animal bites, serious burns, or deep puncture wounds - those might require medical attention. It's available over the counter and as a lower-cost generic medication.

Indications for Neosporin

  • Preventing infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns

Pros and Cons for Neosporin

Pros

  • Combines three antibiotics into one ointment for convenience
  • Available over the counter
  • Works well to prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns
  • Comes in different sizes
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Cons

  • Might need to use it a few times per day
  • Can be messy to use
  • Not meant for long-term use
  • Can't be used to treat infections
  • Not for use in your eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or genitals

Common Side Effects for Neosporin

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Warnings for Neosporin

  • Allergic reaction
  • Use only on your skin

Summary for Cortisporin

Prescription only

Cortisporin Otic is an ear drop that contains three medications: two antibiotics (neomycin, polymyxin) and a corticosteroid (hydrocortisone). It's a good option for treating outer ear infections in adults and children. The typical dose is to place 3 to 4 drops into the affected ear three to four times a day for up to 10 days. Some people have reported burning and stinging as side effects. Brand name Cortisporin Otic has been discontinued; this medication is only available as a generic.

Indications for Cortisporin

Pros and Cons for Cortisporin

Pros

  • Contains three medications that work together to kill the bacteria and treat ear discomfort
  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Can be used with a cotton wick

Cons

  • One of the antibiotic ingredients (neomycin) can damage hearing.
  • Might cause burning when applied
  • Can't be used if you have a torn ear drum or chickenpox

Common Side Effects for Cortisporin

  • Burning
  • Stinging

Warnings for Cortisporin

  • Hearing loss
  • Allergic reaction
  • New infection

Prices with our coupons for Neosporin vs. Cortisporin

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Neomycin/Polymyxin B/Bacitracin Non-Prescription1 tube / 28g of 3.5mg/5000iu/400iu
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Price Card Drug Icon
Neomycin/Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone1 eye dropper / 7.5ml
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