Why was neomycin discontinued? Understanding the Safety Risks
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4 min read
According to a 2019 notice from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), an abbreviated new drug application for nonsterile neomycin sulfate powder was withdrawn due to safety concerns, including ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and neuromuscular blockade. This decision highlights the serious risks associated with the antibiotic and explains why systemic uses of neomycin were discontinued. While topical forms containing neomycin remain available over-the-counter, its systemic administration has been largely abandoned due to these significant adverse effects.