In our homes, especially when we have young children, it is very common to get minor cuts and scrapes. Whether it is while running around playing or doing chores in the kitchen, we get a little nick or cut. So, at such times, many of us are used to using a 'cream that is applied to the towel' from the pharmacy. We think that this will help the wound heal faster without causing any irritation. Today, we are going to talk about this type of medicine that many of you use, which comes with names like 'Polysporin' or 'Double Antibiotic Ointment'.
What is this medicine?
Simply put, this is a combination of two antibiotics. That is, two types of medicines called Bacitracin and Polymyxin B. The main function of these is to stop the growth of bacteria. As we speak, this cream prevents germs from entering and infecting small wounds, cuts, and minor burns on the surface of the skin, that is, preventing them from 'running away' .
This is more of a preventative measure to prevent a wound from becoming infected than a wound healing agent. However, it is not recommended for all wounds. Therefore, we need to be careful about many things before using it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before you use this cream, it is imperative that you talk to your doctor if you have any of the conditions below.
| Your situation | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| An animal bite wound | Animal bite wounds are usually very deep. Also, the types of germs in animals' mouths are different. This cream is not enough to kill the germs in such deep wounds. They require separate medical treatment. |
| Deep wound | It is not recommended to apply this to wounds that have been deeply cut with a knife or driven into a nail. Doing so can cause the surface of the wound to become covered, trapping the germs inside, causing a serious infection. |
| Serious burn | This is not suitable for burns that have burst, large blisters, or spread over a large area. These definitely require hospital treatment. |
| Kidney disease | This medicine can be absorbed into the body in small amounts through the skin. People with kidney problems may have difficulty removing these components from their bodies. Therefore, avoid using it without medical advice. |
| Allergies | If you have previously had an allergy to this medicine, another medicine, food, or dye, be sure to tell your doctor. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | It is very important to seek medical advice before using any medication during pregnancy. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Even while breastfeeding, do not use any medication without consulting your doctor. |
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this, it's important to know exactly how to use it.
1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medication. This will prevent germs from spreading to the wound and the medication from your fingers into your eyes and mouth.
2. Clean the wound: Wash the wound thoroughly with clean water and a mild soap, and then pat it dry with a clean, sterile cloth or gauze. Do not rub the wound vigorously.
3. Apply the medicine: Now apply this cream in a very thin film so that it completely covers the wound. You don't need to apply a lot of cream.
4. Cover the wound: If necessary, after applying the medication, you can cover the wound with a clean bandage or piece of gauze. This will protect the wound from the external environment.
5. Use it at the right time: Your doctor will tell you how many times a day to apply it, or it will be on the medicine tube. Usually, they say to apply it one to three times a day.
The most important thing is that this medicine is only meant to be applied to the skin . Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
When used with small children
Young children's skin is very sensitive, so it's always safest to consult your pediatrician before using this medicine on them.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If someone accidentally takes too much of this medicine or swallows it, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital in Colombo. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Be aware of these things when using the medicine.
- Do not use for more than 7 days: Unless specifically instructed by your doctor, do not use this cream continuously for more than 7 days. Continued use may cause the growth of other bacteria or fungal infections that are not resistant to this medication.
- If the wound gets worse: If the wound gets redder, more swollen, more painful, or pus appears on the wound, stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor. This means that the infection is not being controlled by this medicine.
Possible side effects
Most people do not experience any side effects from this medication, but it is good to be aware of the possible side effects.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction Skin rash, severe itching, redness of the skin, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. | This is a serious condition. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor. If necessary, go to the ETU. |
| Skin changes around the wound Redness, swelling, and increased pain at the site of application. | Stop using the medicine and talk to your doctor. This could be an infection or skin sensitivity. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- This antibiotic cream should only be used for small, superficial scrapes, cuts, and minor burns .
- Never use this on deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns .
- Do not use continuously for more than 7 days unless advised by a doctor.
- If the wound gets worse instead of healing (redness, swelling, increased pain) or shows signs of an allergy, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor.
- If you have other health conditions, such as kidney disease, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor.
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