Antibiotic Ointments

Antibiotic ointments, creams, and sprays are necessary first aid box additions at home, office, or school. They serve to create a protective layer against infection-causing bacteria on simple injuries such as shallow cuts, bruises, grazes, minor burns, and rashes. Staples carries a wide selection of antibiotics in various forms, such as ointments, creams, and sprays, from trusted brands and in a variety of packages. Browse the wide selection of wound care products in the health supplies section.

Different active ingredients
Different antibiotic ointments contain a variety of active ingredients. They work to attack bacteria in different ways depending on the kind of injury, present allergies, and interaction with other medications. For example, topical antibiotics help prevent infection with injuries like minor burns, abrasions, and open wounds. However, neomycin/polymyxin B/bacitracin (triple antibiotic ointment) has a higher chance of causing allergic reactions to different users. The active agents create a protective layer by killing the bacteria and preventing bacterial growth. Different active agents attack different bacteria; for example, the active agent in Neosporin fights a broader range of bacteria as compared to bacitracin zinc. Each package comes with a detailed list of the active ingredients in each antibiotic. 

Different amounts and packages
Antibiotic ointments come in a variety of packages, such as tubes for antibiotic creams and ointments, bottles for antibiotic sprays, and packets that allow single use. Different locations and setups require differing amounts of antibiotics. For example, areas that experience high human traffic best benefit from single-packet packaging that comes in sachets. This helps maintain high levels of hygiene, increases ease in dispensing the right amount, and prevents cross-contamination. Smaller setups, such as homes, can utilize antibiotic sprays and creams that are ideal for multiple uses.

Injury, application, and strength
Antibiotic ointments treat a variety of conditions and injuries like acne, wounds, rashes, bruises, minor cuts, and minor burns. The different forms offer various advantages, for example, antibiotic sprays help offer an added ease of application on injuries that are sensitive or painful to touch. Some injuries may require stronger antibiotics for effective protection, and using double or triple antibiotics helps achieve this. Stronger antibiotics sometimes include other types of antibiotics to increase their effectiveness and offer coverage against more types of bacteria. 

Do they need a prescription?
Most topical antibiotics do not need a prescription, and you can get them over the counter. They come with recommended dosages on the packaging to help instruct the user on the appropriate amount and duration of use for effective treatment. Certain types of injuries, however, such as deep cuts and eye injuries may require professional medical care.

Are there special features?
Some antibiotic creams come with additional features. Some come with a numbing agent that helps ease the pain and offers the user more relief. These types are best for painful injuries that cause discomfort. Others may contain an antihistamine or anti-itching agent that helps prevent itching, which at times aggravates the injured area.

Are there allergy-free antibiotics?
There are latex-free antibiotics that come with significantly reduced chances of causing allergic reactions. Carefully read the listed ingredients to identify and avoid allergy-inducing components.