What should you know about medication for cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a deeper bacterial infection of the skin and nearby tissue. A clinician may prescribe an antibiotic taken by mouth when the infection is suitable for outpatient care. The choice depends on the appearance and location of the infection, possible entry points such as a cut or Athlete's Foot, allergies, other medicines, and health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes.

Pain, warmth, redness, and swelling can take time to settle even after treatment begins. Do not change the dose, share tablets, or save leftover antibiotics for another illness. Some medicines can cause stomach upset, loose stools, rash, or other reactions; your prescriber or pharmacist can explain what is expected for your prescription.

Take each dose exactly as directed and complete the prescribed course unless the clinician who prescribed it tells you to stop. If you miss a dose, follow the medication instructions or ask a pharmacist rather than doubling the next dose. Keep the affected area clean, avoid squeezing or scratching it, and rest or elevate a swollen limb when practical. Marking the edge of redness can help you notice whether it is spreading, but it does not replace a medical review.

Arrange follow-up if the redness, skin pain, fever, or swelling is not beginning to improve as expected, or if symptoms return after treatment. A clinician may need to reassess the diagnosis, look for an untreated wound, or change the medicine.

Seek urgent medical help if redness is spreading quickly, pain is severe or rapidly worsening, the skin becomes dusky or blistered, or you feel markedly unwell. Fever, confusion, faintness, breathing difficulty, a fast heartbeat, or very little urine can signal a serious infection such as Sepsis and needs emergency assessment. Seek immediate help for swelling of the face or throat, wheezing, or widespread hives after a medicine, because these may indicate a severe allergic reaction.

Ask which antibiotic you are receiving, how and when to take it, what to do after a missed dose, and which side effects require a call. Ask how the infection will be monitored, whether a wound or fungal foot infection needs treatment, and when you should be reviewed. Tell the clinician about medicine allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding, kidney problems, and medicines or supplements you already use.