What should you know about medicine for impetigo?

Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that often causes small sores, oozing, and yellow-brown crusts. A clinician may recommend topical antibiotic therapy when there are a few limited areas. Oral antibiotics may be considered when lesions are numerous, spreading, recurrent, or difficult to treat locally. The plan can change if the diagnosis is uncertain, the infection returns, or the skin is affected by another condition such as atopic dermatitis.

Crusts do not show how deep the infection is by themselves. Avoid picking them, because broken skin can spread bacteria to nearby areas and to other people.

Use the medicine for the prescribed schedule and apply it only as directed. Wash hands before and after touching the affected skin, gently cleanse away loosened discharge, and use separate towels, clothing, and bedding until a clinician says the infection is no longer readily spread. Keep fingernails short and discourage scratching in children. Do not share antibiotics or use an old tube from a previous rash. A pharmacist can explain missed doses and possible interactions. Arrange review if new sores appear, existing areas expand, or treatment causes a troublesome reaction.

Seek prompt care if the infection is near the eye, there is marked swelling or pain, fever, reduced alertness, dehydration, or rapidly spreading redness. A baby, a person with reduced immunity, or someone with extensive sores may need earlier assessment. Get urgent advice if the skin becomes very tender, blistered, or dark, or if the child seems unusually unwell.

Ask whether topical or oral treatment fits the pattern, how long to keep the area covered, when school or work activities can resume, and how to manage household contacts. Ask what signs would suggest eczema, another rash, or a need to change treatment.