Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is a combination antibiotic ointment for bacterial eye infections. Learn about its uses, dosage, cost, and what to know before using it in 2026.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is a combination antibiotic that contains two active ingredients — Bacitracin Zinc and Polymyxin B Sulfate — which work together to fight bacterial infections. It's available as both a prescription ophthalmic (eye) ointment and an over-the-counter topical ointment for skin.
If your doctor just prescribed this medication or you're researching it before an appointment, here's everything you need to know — from what it treats to how much it costs.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B belongs to the drug class of ophthalmic anti-infectives and topical antibiotics. The full generic name is Bacitracin Zinc and Polymyxin B Sulfate.
You may recognize it by several brand names:
It's manufactured by several companies, including Padagis (formerly Perrigo), Bausch + Lomb, and various generic manufacturers.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is not a controlled substance and has no DEA scheduling. The topical form is available without a prescription, but the ophthalmic form requires a doctor's prescription.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is FDA-approved for treating several types of bacterial infections:
Doctors sometimes use Bacitracin/Polymyxin B off-label for:
The dosage depends on whether you're using the ophthalmic or topical form:
The standard formulation contains 500 units of Bacitracin Zinc and 10,000 units of Polymyxin B Sulfate per gram, supplied in a 3.5-gram tube.
Typical dosage: Apply a thin ribbon (about 1 centimeter) into the lower conjunctival sac (the pocket formed when you gently pull down your lower eyelid) every 3 to 4 hours for 7 to 10 days.
How to apply it properly:
Expect temporary blurred vision after each application — that's normal with any eye ointment. Many people prefer to apply it at bedtime for this reason. Do not wear contact lenses while using this medication.
Clean the wound area, apply a thin layer 1 to 3 times daily, and cover with a sterile bandage if desired.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is not appropriate for everyone. You should not use it if you have:
Important safety note: This ointment should never be injected into the eye. It's for external application only. The labeling also notes that ophthalmic ointments may slow corneal wound healing.
For more about how the medication works inside your body, see our article on how Bacitracin/Polymyxin B works.
Cost depends on which form you need and whether you have insurance:
For tips on getting the best price, check out our complete guide to saving money on Bacitracin/Polymyxin B.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment is generally covered by most insurance plans as a generic medication. It's usually placed on Tier 1 or Tier 2 formularies, which means lower copays. Prior authorization is typically not required, though some plans may prefer Erythromycin ophthalmic as a first-line treatment and require step therapy.
One important thing to know: there's currently an active shortage of bacitracin ophthalmic products. Padagis temporarily discontinued production in July 2024, with resupply not expected until October 2026. This may affect how easily you can find Bacitracin/Polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment at your pharmacy.
If you're having trouble finding it, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it in stock.
Bacitracin/Polymyxin B is a well-established combination antibiotic that's been treating bacterial eye and skin infections for decades. For most patients with bacterial conjunctivitis or other common eye infections, it's an effective and affordable treatment option.
The main challenges right now are availability (due to the ongoing shortage) and knowing which form you need (prescription ophthalmic vs. OTC topical). Your doctor can help you determine the right treatment, and tools like Medfinder can help you find it once you have your prescription.
For related information, learn about side effects to watch for and drug interactions to know about.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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