neomycin

noun

neo·​my·​cin ˌnē-ə-ˈmī-sᵊn 

: a broad-spectrum highly toxic antibiotic or mixture of antibiotics produced by a streptomyces (Streptomyces fradiae) and used medically especially to treat local infections

Examples of neomycin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The foreign bodies were removed from the nasal region of the right cornea using Jewelers forceps, and the patient was prescribed a combination neomycin, polymyxin B, and dexamethasone ointment (Maxitrol(®)), given 4 times per day. —Seriously Science, Discover Magazine, 23 Oct. 2013

The antibiotics facing export limits are tinidazole, metronidazole, chloramphenicol, erythromycin salts, neomycin, clindamycin salts and ornidazole. —Vindu Goel, New York Times, 10 Mar. 2020

Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare but have been experienced by patients allergic to the antibiotic neomycin. —Henry Goldman | Bloomberg, Washington Post, 5 May 2019

The vaccine is not recommended for people who allergic to gelatin, the antibiotic neomycin, or any other vaccine components. —Health.com, 1 May 2017

Word History

Etymology

neo- + -mycin

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

neomycin

noun

neo·​my·​cin ˌnē-ə-ˈmīs-ᵊn 

: a broad-spectrum highly toxic mixture of aminoglycoside antibiotics produced by a bacterium of the genus Streptomyces (S. fradiae)

specifically : a commercial preparation that is composed chiefly of two stereoisomers of neomycin administered in the form of their sulfate C₂₃H₄₆N₆O₁₃·2¹/₂H₂SO₄ and that is used either alone or in combination with one or more other drugs especially to treat infections (as impetigo or conjunctivitis) topically, to irrigate the bladder, and to produce intestinal antisepsis prior to certain surgeries