Nebacetin: what it is for and how to use it

Nebacetin is an ointment that contains neomycin sulfate + zinc bacitracin, which are substances with antimicrobial action, which act by destroying and preventing the multiplication of bacteria that can cause skin infections, in addition to helping with skin healing, which is why it is recommended to prevent infections caused by burns or wounds, or to treat infected acne or boils, for example.

This ointment can be found in pharmacies or drugstores as Nebacetin ointment or in generic form as neomycin sulfate + zinc bacitracin, and must be used with medical indication and is only sold with a prescription and retention of the prescription by the pharmacy.

What is it for

Nebacetin ointment is indicated for the treatment or prevention of infections on the skin or mucous membranes such as:

• Open wounds;
• Skin burns;
• Infections around the hair or folliculitis;
• Infections on the outside of the ears, such as otitis externa;
• Infected acne or pimple;
• Boils;
• Skin ulcers;
• Infected eczema;
• Infected cuts or wounds with or without pus.

Nebacetin ointment can also be used to prevent surgical scar infection or to treat nasal mucosa infections, anthrax or skin blisters caused by impetigo.

In addition, Nebacetin ointment is indicated for the treatment of intertrigo, which is a skin infection that can appear on the inner thighs, between the fingers or in skin folds, such as armpits, below the breasts and groin, for example. and causes itching, local pain and redness.

How to use

Nebacetin ointment should be used on the affected skin, applying a thin layer of the ointment, 2 to 5 times a day, always at the times established by the doctor. It is recommended to wash the skin with water and neutral soap and dry well with a clean, dry towel before applying Nebacetin ointment.

The use of Nebacetin ointment should be carried out for the duration of the treatment indicated by the doctor, even if the symptoms have disappeared, so that the skin infection can be completely combated. Furthermore, the use of this ointment should be continued for 2 to 3 days after the symptoms disappear, and should not be used for more than 10 days.

If you forget to apply the ointment at the correct time, apply it as soon as you remember, but do not apply it if it is almost time to apply the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects that may occur during treatment with Nebacetin ointment are redness, swelling, irritation, itching or swelling at the application site.

Additionally, Nebacetin ointment can also cause balance and hearing problems when applied to the ear to treat otitis media or when used on large areas of skin.

Who shouldn’t use

Nebacetin ointment should not be used by babies, children, pregnant women or while breastfeeding. They should also be avoided by people with myasthenia gravis or kidney diseases, such as kidney failure.

Furthermore, this ointment should not be used by people allergic to neomycin or bacitracin, or other aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin, amikacin or tobramycin.

Nebacetin ointment should also not be used in the eyes.