• Naseptin contains an antibiotic and a disinfectant.
  • Naseptin is used to treat and prevent infections in the nose.
  • Naseptin works by killing certain bacteria that cause infections.

What is Naseptin nasal cream used for?

  • Naseptin nasal cream is used to treat nose infections caused by staphylococcal bacteria. You might be prescribed it if you or your child get frequent nosebleeds, as it will help to clear up any infection and crusting that leads to further nose picking and bleeding. Naseptin is an alternative to having the nose cauterised and is similarly effective.
  • Naseptin nasal cream can also be prescribed to eradicate staphylococcal bacteria from the nose in order to prevent infections. Staphylococcal bacteria are found naturally on many people's skin and inside their nose.
These bacteria are usually harmless and don't cause problems, but they can sometimes cause infection if they get into a wound or spread to other parts of the body.

How does Naseptin nasal cream work?

  • Naseptin nasal cream contains two active ingredients, chlorhexidine hydrochloride and neomycin sulfate.
  • Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antiseptic that kills a wide range of bacteria and yeasts, and some fungi and viruses.
  • Neomycin sulphate is an antibiotic of the aminoglycoside type. It rapidly kills bacteria by interfering with the production of proteins that the bacteria need to divide and multiply. 

Key facts about Naseptin nasal cream

  • Naseptin nasal cream is only available on prescription - you can't buy it over the counter.
  • Naseptin is suitable for children and adults, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Don't use Naseptin if you're allergic to peanuts or soya.
  • To treat nasal infections the cream is used four times a day for 10 days. To prevent infections it's used twice a day.
  • Avoid applying the cream immediately after washing your face, as some soaps can make it less effective.
  • If you accidentally get the cream on clothes or other fabrics, don't use bleach to remove it - this can cause brown staining.

Who shouldn't use Naseptin nasal cream?

  • Naseptin can be used by most people, including adults, children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • However, do not use it if you are allergic to peanuts, soya, chlorhexidine, neomycin, or any other ingredient of the cream.
  • Tell your doctor if you have any problems with your hearing or kidneys.

How do I use Naseptin nasal cream?

  • Put a small amount of the cream (about the size of a match head) on the tip of your little finger and apply it to the inside of one nostril. Repeat inside the other nostril then press the sides of the nose together to spread the cream around the nostrils.
  • Don't use the cream immediately after washing your face, as some soaps can make it less effective.
  • To treat an infection the cream is usually applied four times a day for 10 days. To prevent infection the cream should be applied twice a day. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
  • Wash your hands after applying the cream.
  • If you forget to apply a dose apply it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for the next dose. In this case leave out the missed dose and apply the cream as usual for the next dose. Don't use double the amount of cream to make up for a missed dose.

What are the side effects of Naseptin nasal cream?

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that may be associated with Naseptin nasal cream. Just because a side effect is stated here doesn't mean that all people using this cream will experience that or any side effect.

  • Reduced sense of smell or taste while you're using the cream.
  • Skin irritation.

Prolonged use of neomycin can lead to skin sensitivity, hearing problems or kidney problems, but these are highly unlikely from using a short course of Naseptin.
Read the leaflet that comes with your medicine or talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you want any more information about the possible side effects of Naseptin.

Can I use Naseptin nasal cream with other medicines?

  • It's fine to use Naseptin nasal cream with other medicines. However, it's best to avoid using other medicines in your nose (eg nasal drops or sprays) around the same time as applying the cream, as it's possible other products could dilute the cream or wash it out of the nostrils, making it less effective.

References:

https://www.drugs.com/uk/naseptin-nasal-cream-leaflet.html

https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/ear-nose-throat/a7185/naseptin-nasal-cream-chlorhexidine-neomycin/

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5524/pil

https://www.medicines.ie/medicines/naseptin-nasal-cream-32984/

https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/LicenseSPC_PA0943-002-001_13112014105040.pdf

http://www.mhra.gov.uk/home/groups/spcpil/documents/spcpil/con1533874524081.pdf