How effective are antibiotics for impetigo?

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that can cause blisters, sores and honey-coloured crusts. A clinician may recommend an antibiotic applied to the affected skin when the area is limited. An oral antibiotic may be considered when infection covers a wider area, keeps spreading, or sits where applying cream is difficult. Treatment should reduce new lesions and help existing sores settle, but crusting can take time to disappear.

Use the prescribed product at the stated times and complete an oral course unless the prescriber changes the plan. Wash hands after touching the area, keep sores covered when practical, avoid sharing towels, and wash clothing and bedding that contact the lesions. Do not pick crusts or use leftover antibiotics, because the wrong product may delay appropriate care.

Arrange medical review if sores continue to spread, new lesions keep appearing, or the skin becomes increasingly painful, warm or swollen. Seek prompt care if you feel very unwell, develop swelling near the eyes, or notice signs of a deeper infection. Children should stay away from close-contact activities until a clinician confirms it is reasonable to return.

Ask whether a topical or oral antibiotic fits the number and location of your sores, how to apply or take it, and what improvement should look like. Confirm what to do if a dose is missed or the skin becomes irritated.