I have seen no research on this (other than wonder Dr. Hale's personal taste
testing some month's ago).  Check the archives!  I work with a group of
pediatricians so take advantage of their experience with these meds and
assume they know what they're doing...   Bactroban is prescribed and
Bactrican is handed out with no warning to wash off.  Just apply trace amount
to damaged area after feeding.

Was warned to avoid Neosporin in this situation as possibly more likely to
cause allergic reaction, such as inflammation of baby's skin in contact with
med.

Some concern that extended use of antibacterial meds on nipple may predispose
to candidiasis so I do suggest to moms they use only until lesions closed.
 And I only recommend when nipple lesion is obviously deep and has been
persistent.

Joanna Koch, IBCLC in Los Altos, CA