Erythromycin for impetigo: what to know

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that can cause fragile blisters, sores, oozing, and yellow-brown crusting, often around the nose, mouth, or on exposed skin. Erythromycin works by slowing the growth of certain bacteria. It is not useful for every crusted rash, because eczema, irritation, and other conditions can look similar. A clinician may choose a medicine applied to the skin for a small area or an oral medicine when infection is more extensive, spreading, or difficult to treat locally.

Take or apply erythromycin exactly as prescribed and complete the instructed course unless the prescriber changes it. Wash hands before and after touching affected skin, keep sores covered when practical, and avoid sharing towels, bedding, cosmetics, or razors. Gentle cleansing helps remove discharge; do not pick crusts. Tell the clinician about allergies, pregnancy, liver problems, and medicines you take, because erythromycin can interact with some drugs. Read more about [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) and [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/).

Seek prompt medical advice if redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or drainage is spreading, if fever or marked tiredness develops, or if the skin around an eye is involved. Get urgent help for facial swelling, wheezing, faintness, or widespread hives after a dose. If sores are not settling as expected, reassessment can confirm the diagnosis and whether another treatment is needed. [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/) can have causes other than impetigo.

Ask whether the rash has features of impetigo, which erythromycin form is intended, how to handle a missed dose, and when you should expect the infection to look better. Ask what hygiene steps are appropriate for household contacts and whether another diagnosis, such as [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/), could be contributing to repeated sores.