Bacitracin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates, bacitracin zinc and hydrocortisone ophthalmic ointment is indicated for steroid-responsive inflammatory ocular conditions for which a corticosteroid is indicated and where bacterial inf

Data source
FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 3b00eb5c…)
Label version
current
Last reviewed
2026
Side effects

Reported adverse reactions

Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.

No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.

Uses

Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)

Neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates, bacitracin zinc and hydrocortisone ophthalmic ointment is indicated for steroid-responsive inflammatory ocular conditions for which a corticosteroid is indicated and where bacterial infection or a risk of bacterial infection exists. Ocular corticosteroids are indicated in inflammatory conditions of the palpebral and bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and anterior segment of the globe where the inherent risk of corticosteroid use in certain infective conjunctivitides is accepted to obtain a diminution in edema and inflammation. They are also indicated in chronic anterior uveitis and corneal injury from chemical, radiation, or thermal burns, or penetration of foreign bodies. The use of a combination drug with an anti-infective component is indicated where the risk of infection is high or where there is an expectation that potentially dangerous numbers of bacteria will be present in the eye (see  CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ,   Microbiology ). The particular anti-infective drugs in this product are active against the following common bacterial eye pathogens:  Staphylococcus aureus , streptococci, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus i…

Related conditions

Conditions associated with Bacitracin in labeling

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bacitracin used for?

FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.

What are the most commonly reported side effects of Bacitracin?

Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.

Does Bacitracin require lab monitoring?

Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Bacitracin.

Where does this information come from?

All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.

Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Educational content only: The information on Symptom Database.com is for educational purposes and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. Read our full disclaimer.