Neomycin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Neomycin is a topical antibiotic for minor skin infections, often in combination. It belongs to the Topical antibiotic group. These treat or prevent infection in minor wounds, burns and skin/eye conditions.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Topical antibiotic
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Minor skin infections, infected cuts and scrapes
Commonly combined with other antibiotics or steroid creams
Some ear and eye combination preparations
By mouth (rarely) to reduce gut bacteria before bowel surgery or in certain liver conditions

Common brand names

India: Neosporin (combo), Nebasulf
Worldwide: Neosporin (combo)

Common side effects

Itching, redness or rash where applied
Contact allergy, which is fairly common with neomycin
Burning or stinging

Before taking it — precautions

Stop and see your doctor if the skin gets worse; neomycin allergy is common
Do not use on large areas of broken skin or for long periods, as absorbed neomycin can harm hearing and kidneys
Do not use in the ear if the eardrum may be perforated unless a doctor advises

When to see a doctor urgently

Spreading rash, blisters or swelling where applied
Hearing loss, ringing in the ears or dizziness
Severe allergic reaction: swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of neomycin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Why did my skin get worse after using it?

Neomycin is a common cause of contact allergy. Stop using it and ask your doctor for an alternative.

Can I use it on a large burn or wound?

No. Large or deep wounds and burns need medical care, and neomycin can be absorbed through large raw areas.

How long should I use it?

Only for a short course. If the infection is not improving within a few days, see a doctor.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.