What should you know about impetigo antibiotic of choice?

A small, localised area may be managed with a medicine applied to the skin, while more extensive, spreading or difficult-to-treat infection may need medicine taken by mouth. The choice also depends on allergies, age, pregnancy, other medicines, previous treatment and local prescribing practice. A clinician may take a swab when the diagnosis is uncertain, the infection is recurring or treatment has not worked.

Impetigo can resemble infected eczema or another crusting rash. [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) and [Crusting Skin](/symptoms/skin-crusting/) provide useful background, but neither replaces an examination.

Do not use leftover antibiotics, share someone else’s prescription, or stop early because the crust looks better. Clean the area gently, keep nails short, wash hands after touching sores and avoid sharing towels or clothing. Follow the prescribed dose, timing and duration. More information is available about [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) and [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/).

Tell the prescriber about a previous antibiotic reaction, current medicines and any medical condition that may affect treatment. Report troublesome reactions rather than changing the medicine yourself.

Seek medical advice if sores continue to spread, new lesions appear after treatment begins, or there is no clear improvement with the agreed plan. Get prompt care for fever, rapidly worsening redness, severe pain, marked swelling, or involvement near the eye. Urgent help is needed for signs of a serious allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

Is a topical or oral antibiotic more suitable for my pattern of sores? Do I need a swab? What should I do if I miss a dose or develop a rash after starting treatment?