Neosporin Allergy
Knicks and cuts are a part of everyday life; cutting veggies for supper, yard work, kids falling and scraping their knees are all very common this time of year. Cleaning the area and using medication are an important part of taking care of these cuts, so they don’t get infected. Often, we go to the medicine cabinet and grab the trusty Neosporin (triple antibiotic). But, did you know that about 20% of people are allergic to one of the ingredients in Neosporin?
“Neomycin” is the ingredient responsible for most allergic reactions to Neosporin. How do you know if you are allergic? Cuts that don’t heal usually mean there is an allergy. If this is the case you should gently cleanse the wound and re-apply new bandages and contact your doctor. You should also monitor the area for any signs of infection. Look for the following changes:
· Increased redness
· Increased pain
· Increased drainage
· Foul smell
· Red streaking around the area
If you notice any of these changes, you should follow up with your medical provider.
The good news is that there are other medicines that will work just as well, without the risk of allergy. “Bacitracin” and “polysporin” are antibiotics that will heal those small cuts and scrapes so you can keep having fun in the sun without having to worry. Happy summer!
Tyler Jepson, PT, DPT
Emergency Department
Filed under: Common Aches & Pains, General Health Tips