Neomycin/polymyxin B/hydrocortisone

Neomycin/Polymyxin B/Hydrocortisone is a combination medication used in the treatment of various types of ear infections. It contains three active ingredients: Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Hydrocortisone.

Composition

Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. Polymyxin B is an antibiotic that kills bacteria by disrupting their cell membrane, which controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation.

Indications

This medication is used to treat ear infections (otitis media), ear inflammation and to prevent infections after ear surgeries. It is also used to treat external ear infections (otitis externa) and middle ear infections in patients with tubes in their ears.

Administration

The medication is administered as ear drops. The dosage is usually 4 drops in the affected ear(s) every 6-8 hours, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

Common side effects include temporary stinging/burning in the ear canal or temporary changes in taste. Serious side effects are rare, but may include: new signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), hearing changes, easy bruising/bleeding.

Precautions

Before using this medication, inform your healthcare professional if you are allergic to neomycin, polymyxin B, or hydrocortisone; or to other aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as gentamicin, tobramycin); or to other corticosteroids (such as prednisone); or if you have any other allergies.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

See Also

• Otitis Media
• Otitis Externa
• Aminoglycoside Antibiotics
• Corticosteroids