What medicine should be applied for burns?

Nov 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Topical medications for burns should be selected based on the condition of the wound. Under medical guidance, options may include moist burn ointment, silver sulfadiazine cream, mupirocin ointment, recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel, or compound polymyxin B ointment. In cases of severe burns or signs of wound infection, prompt medical attention at a正规 hospital is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Topical medications for burns should be selected based on the condition of the wound and can be used under medical guidance, such as Moist Exposed Burn Ointment, Silver Sulfadiazine Cream, Mupirocin Ointment, Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor Gel, and Compound Polymyxin B Ointment. In cases of severe burns or signs of infection in the wound, prompt medical attention at a正规 hospital is recommended. Specific details are as follows:

1. Moist Exposed Burn Ointment

This ointment contains main ingredients such as Coptis (Huanglian), Phellodendron bark (Huangbai), and Scutellaria (Huangqin), which have effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, relieving pain, and promoting tissue regeneration. It forms a protective film over the wound to reduce external irritation, maintain a moist wound environment, promote the shedding of necrotic tissue, and stimulate granulation tissue growth. It is suitable for mild burn wounds.

2. Silver Sulfadiazine Cream

A sulfonamide-class antimicrobial agent combining the antibacterial action of sulfadiazine with the astringent effect of silver salts. It effectively inhibits the growth of Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and fungi, reducing the risk of wound infection. It also promotes wound drying and scab formation, making it suitable for mild to moderate burns and infected wounds.

3. Mupirocin Ointment

A topical antibiotic that exerts its antimicrobial effect by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It is effective against skin infections caused by Gram-positive cocci. It is indicated for superficial bacterial infections following burns, helping prevent and control infection and creating favorable conditions for wound healing.

4. Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor Gel

The primary component is recombinant human epidermal growth factor, which promotes the proliferation and differentiation of epidermal cells, accelerating granulation tissue formation and re-epithelialization. It is suitable for superficial second-degree burn wounds, shortening healing time and potentially reducing scar formation.

5. Compound Polymyxin B Ointment

A combination formulation containing polymyxin B, neomycin, bacitracin, and other components, providing broad-spectrum antibacterial coverage. It kills various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, prevents wound infection, and has some analgesic effect. It is suitable for mild burns and bacterial infections of skin wounds.

Before applying any topical medication, the wound should be cleaned properly; self-medication should be avoided. If symptoms such as increased redness and swelling, excessive exudate, or fever occur, discontinue use immediately and seek medical care promptly to avoid delaying treatment.

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