Medicines for cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in deeper skin and nearby tissue. A clinician may prescribe tablets when the infection is limited and you are otherwise well. Treatment through a vein may be considered when the infection is severe, spreading quickly, or you cannot keep tablets down. The medicine choice can change with allergies, kidney problems, previous antibiotic use, or an infection near the eye.

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed. Nausea, loose stools, or a mild rash can occur with some antibiotics, but facial swelling, breathing trouble, or a widespread blistering rash needs immediate help. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share a prescription.

Rest the affected area and raise an arm or leg when practical to reduce swelling. Keep any wound clean and follow the dressing instructions you were given. Marking the edge of redness can help you notice whether it is extending, but it does not replace a medical review.

Finish the prescribed course unless the prescriber changes it. Contact the clinic if symptoms are not beginning to settle, or if medicine side effects make it difficult to continue. Tell the clinician about athlete’s foot, diabetes, immune problems, and every medicine or supplement you take.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for new painful skin redness, warmth, swelling, or fever, especially when the area is expanding. Seek emergency help for confusion, faintness, severe weakness, fast breathing, blue or mottled skin, or rapidly worsening illness because these can signal a serious infection such as sepsis.

Ask which antibiotic is being used, when improvement should be checked, what to do if you miss a dose, and which side effects require urgent help. Ask whether a wound, athlete’s foot, or another condition could be allowing bacteria to enter the skin.