Hydrocortisone + Neomycin Sulphate + Polymixin B

Allopathic
Indications
  • Inflammatory Skin Disorders
    • Eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and allergic skin reactions requiring anti-inflammatory therapy
  • Bacterial Skin Infections
    • Superficial infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
  • Combined Inflammation and Infection
    • Skin conditions where both inflammation and bacterial infection coexist
  • Off-label / Clinically Accepted Uses
    • Minor cuts, abrasions, insect bites with local infection risk
    • Post-procedural skin irritation with secondary infection
Dosage & Administration

Topical use only. Not for systemic administration.

  • Adults and Children (>2 years)
    • Apply a thin layer 2–3 times daily to the affected area
  • Children (<2 years)
    • Use only under strict medical supervision due to potential systemic absorption
  • Special Populations
    • Avoid large-area application in elderly, pregnant, or patients with renal/hepatic impairment
  • Duration
    • Limit treatment to 7–10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid that binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and immune cell recruitment, producing anti-inflammatory effects. Neomycin and polymyxin B are bactericidal antibiotics: neomycin binds to bacterial ribosomal RNA, inhibiting protein synthesis in Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria, while polymyxin B disrupts bacterial cell membranes, leading to cell death. The combination provides anti-inflammatory action plus broad-spectrum antibacterial coverage.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically; higher absorption over damaged skin
  • Distribution: Localized effect; systemic distribution generally negligible
  • Metabolism: Neomycin and polymyxin B undergo minimal metabolism; hydrocortisone metabolized hepatically
  • Excretion: Hydrocortisone metabolites excreted via kidneys; neomycin and polymyxin B mostly excreted unchanged if absorbed
  • Onset: Lidocaine effect within minutes; hydrocortisone effect within hours
  • Half-life: Hydrocortisone ~1.5–2 hours (biologic effects longer); antibiotics half-life minimal systemically
Pregnancy Category & Lactation

 

  • Pregnancy: Category C; topical use over small areas generally considered low-risk
  • Lactation: Minimal systemic absorption; considered compatible with breastfeeding, but avoid applying to areas in direct infant contact
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary therapeutic class: Corticosteroid + Topical Antibiotics
  • Subclass: Glucocorticoid (Hydrocortisone) / Aminoglycoside antibiotic (Neomycin) / Polymyxin antibiotic (Polymyxin B)
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone, neomycin, polymyxin B, or any excipients
  • Viral, fungal, or mycobacterial skin infections (unless combined with appropriate therapy)
  • Open or deep wounds, extensive burns without medical supervision
Warnings & Precautions
  • High-risk patients: Infants, elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Systemic absorption risk: Avoid applying over large areas, broken skin, or prolonged use
  • Nephrotoxicity / Ototoxicity: Rare risk of systemic effects from neomycin absorption, particularly in infants or compromised skin
  • Skin atrophy: Prolonged corticosteroid use may cause thinning or striae
  • Allergic reactions: Watch for contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity
  • Avoid mucous membranes: Do not apply in eyes, mouth, or vagina unless specifically indicated
Side Effects
  • Common
    • Mild burning, stinging, or irritation at the application site
    • Redness or dryness
  • Less common / rare
    • Skin atrophy, telangiectasia, striae with prolonged corticosteroid use
    • Allergic contact dermatitis
    • Rare systemic antibiotic toxicity (nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity) if absorbed
Drug Interactions
  • Other topical corticosteroids or antibiotics: Additive effects or increased local/systemic absorption
  • Concurrent nephrotoxic drugs: Increased risk if systemic absorption occurs
  • Systemic CYP3A4 inhibitors: Minimal interaction risk, primarily for hydrocortisone if absorbed extensively
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • Topical combination therapy recommended for short-term use in localized infected inflammatory skin conditions
  • Emphasis on patient education regarding duration, area of application, and avoidance of prolonged use
  • Updated guidelines recommend monitoring infants and high-risk patients for potential systemic absorption
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (room temperature)
  • Protect from light and moisture
  • Keep in a tight, well-closed container
  • Do not freeze; discard if discoloration, separation, or unusual odor occurs