Definition

Noun: - A brand name for a topical medication: Neosporin is a trade name for an over-the-counter ointment containing a combination of antibiotic ingredients (neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin). It is primarily used to prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. - A treatment for minor eye infections: Under the same brand name, it is also available in the form of medicated eye drops designed to treat certain minor bacterial eye infections.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • After cleaning the scrape, she applied a small amount of Neosporin to help prevent infection.
  • The doctor recommended Neosporin ointment for the minor skin irritation.
  • For his conjunctivitis, the pharmacist suggested Neosporin eye drops.

Advanced Usage

• As a general term for antibiotic ointment: In informal, non-medical contexts, "Neosporin" is sometimes used generically to refer to any similar triple-antibiotic first-aid ointment, though this is a trademark-specific usage.
  • Do you have any Neosporin or a similar antibiotic cream?

Variants and Related Words

• Antibiotic ointment (n): A more general term for topical medications containing antibiotics to prevent or treat skin infections.
• Topical antibiotic (n): A drug applied directly to the skin or a mucous membrane (like the eye) to fight bacterial infection.
• First-aid cream (n): A broad category of creams and ointments used for initial treatment of minor wounds.

Synonyms

• Antibacterial ointment: An ointment that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria.
• Triple antibiotic ointment: A specific type of ointment containing three different antibiotics, which is the formulation of the Neosporin brand.

Important Notes

• Trademark: "Neosporin" is a registered trademark. The generic drug names for its active ingredients are neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin.
• Usage Caution: It is for external use only on minor wounds. Some individuals may be allergic to its ingredients, particularly neomycin. It is not suitable for deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns without consulting a doctor.

Noun

1. trade name for a topical drug containing several antibacterials; used as an ointment for skin irritations and in the form of eyedrops for minor eye infections