What is a good antibiotic for cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in deeper layers of skin. Treatment may involve an antibiotic taken by mouth, while a more extensive or rapidly progressing infection may need hospital assessment and medicine through a vein. The prescriber considers allergies, previous antibiotic exposure, kidney health, immune problems, and whether an animal bite, wound, or another skin problem could have introduced bacteria. Athlete’s foot can create cracks between the toes that allow bacteria to enter, so treating the entry point may reduce repeated episodes. Do not use leftover tablets or share another person’s prescription.

Take the prescribed medicine exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes the plan. Mark the edge of redness with a pen only if your clinician recommends monitoring it, and note whether pain, warmth, swelling, or fever is changing. Keep the area clean, protect any break in the skin, and elevate an affected limb when practical. Arrange review if symptoms are not settling or if they worsen while taking treatment. Diabetes or a weakened immune system can make skin infections harder to manage; mention these conditions at the appointment.

Seek urgent medical care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, marked swelling, fever, confusion, faintness, a racing heartbeat, or skin that becomes dusky, blistered, or numb. These signs can indicate a deeper infection or sepsis and should not be watched at home. Infection near the eye, on the face, or around a wound also warrants prompt assessment.

Ask which bacteria the treatment is intended to cover, how soon improvement should begin, what side effects need a call, and whether the wound or entry point needs separate care. Ask whether you need a review if redness continues to expand.