Polymyxin B is a prescription antibiotic medication that is used in combination with other drugs to treat bacterial infections of the eyes and skin. It is commonly administered as a medicated ophthalmic solution (eye drops) or medicated ointment.

Polymyxin B is an antibiotic, which means that it is ineffective against viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. This medication is prescribed to treat existing infections, and should not be used as a preventative measure against bacterial infections. Doing so can actually make you more resistant to antibiotic treatment.

Polymyxin B is an antibiotic that is commonly administered as a medicated eye drop or topical ointment.

Ophthalmic polymyxin B is used in conjunction with other drugs for the treatment of bacterial eye infections.

Common forms of bacterial eye infections polymyxin is used to treat include:
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis): Pink eye may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic response. Newborns may experience pink eye caused by an incompletely opened tear duct. Pink eye symptoms include red and watery eyes, itchiness, excessive tearing, and discharge from the eye.
- Blepharitis: Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelid commonly caused by infection or clogged pores. This inflammation leads to swelling in the eyelid, watery eyes, burning in the eyes, sensitivity to light, and other symptoms.

Topical polymyxin B is used in conjunction with other drugs for the treatment of bacterial skin infections.

Common forms of bacterial skin infections that topical polymyxin B is used to treat include:
- Cellulitis: A potentially life-threatening infection caused by the Staphylococcus and Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Cellulitis results in red, painful, and inflamed skin. Cellulitis doesn’t transfer from person to person but can spread across the body.
- Impetigo: A mild skin infection that commonly affects young children (younger than 12). Impetigo results in sores on the skin that cluster around the nose and mouth. This infection is highly contagious but produces mild symptoms.
- Boils: Also known as furuncles, boils are bacterial infections of hair follicles. Bacteria enter the skin through an opening of the skin and affect the tissue around a hair follicle. This results in a painful raised bump around the infected follicle.

Polymyxin is classified as an antibiotic medication. These drugs are indicated for use as a treatment for bacterial infections in various parts of the body. They work by killing harmful bacteria and preventing their growth. This dual-action treats existing infections while preventing them from spreading or worsening.

Because polymyxin B is an antibiotic, it is ineffective against viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. In addition, this drug is only used to treat existing infections. Using polymyxin as a preventative measure against infections can actually make your body resistant to the drug and increase your likelihood of developing one of the conditions listed above.

Polymyxin B has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from ophthalmic polymyxin B use include:

• Itching, stinging, and burning of the eye
  
• Increased tear production
  
• Blurred vision
  

Common side effects reported from topical polymyxin B use include:

• Skin thinning
  
• Small red or white bumps on the skin
  
• Acne
  
• Hair growth
  
• Changes in skin color
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as swelling that does not go away, hives, rash, itching, or irritation while using polymyxin B. Because you may experience blurred vision after applying ophthalmic polymyxin B, do not operate cars or other forms of machinery immediately after using this medication.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with polymyxin B. Polymyxin B can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Polymyxin B is commonly administered as an ophthalmic ointment or eye drops. For adults and children over the age of 12, apply topical polymyxin B ointment to the affected skin 2-5 times per day. If you have been prescribed medicated eye drops, apply one drop to the affected eye every 4 hours. These dosages may increase as needed.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of polymyxin B without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Polymyxin B is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not polymyxin B is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for polymyxin B to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.