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Neosporin vs. Ssd

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

Key takeaways

Neosporin (bacitracin/neomycin/polymyxin B) and SSD (silver sulfadiazine) are both topical antibiotics, but they are used for different types of skin issues. Neosporin is an over-the-counter ointment that combines three antibiotics to prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. In contrast, SSD is a prescription-only cream used to treat or prevent serious infections caused by second- and third-degree burns. Neosporin is applied 1 to 3 times daily, while SSD is typically applied once or twice a day. Neosporin should not be used for serious burns, animal bites, or deep puncture wounds, whereas SSD is specifically designed for more severe burns. Additionally, SSD should not be used if you have a sulfa allergy or severe kidney or liver issues, and it is not recommended for pregnant women close to their due dates.

Neosporin

 

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Silver sulfadiazine

(SSD)

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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

See Risks and Warnings

Warnings for Neosporin

  • Allergic reaction
  • Use only on your skin

Summary for Ssd

Prescription only

Silver sulfadiazine (SSD) is an antibiotic cream used to treat or prevent serious skin infections caused by second- or third-degree burns. Silver sulfadiazine (SSD) is typically applied once or twice a day, after the wound has been cleaned. This medication can cause some side effects, such as rash or skin redness. Rarely, it can lead to serious allergic reactions. Silver sulfadiazine (SSD) is available by prescription only.

Indications for Ssd

  • Prevention and treatment of infections caused by second- and third-degree burns

Pros and Cons for Ssd

Pros

  • Works well against many different kinds of bacteria
  • Can help prevent infections caused by skin burns
  • Can be used with dressing, if needed

Cons

  • Shouldn't be used if you have a sulfa allergy
  • Not recommended for pregnant females, especially those close to their due dates
  • Might not be the best choice if you have severe kidney or liver issues

Common Side Effects for Ssd

  • Temporary low number of white blood cells

Warnings for Ssd

  • Severe allergic and skin reactions
  • Changes in levels of blood cells
  • Possible risk of fungal infections

Prices with our coupons for Neosporin vs. Ssd

Price Card Drug Icon
Neomycin/Polymyxin B/Bacitracin Non-Prescription1 tube / 28g of 3.5mg/5000iu/400iu
$10.38-
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Price Card Drug Icon
Silver Sulfadiazine1 tube / 25g of 1%
$13.10$28.52
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