Skin antibiotics: what patients should know

Skin antibiotics may be applied to the skin or taken by mouth. The form depends on how extensive or deep the infection is, its location, and the bacteria suspected. Redness, warmth, tenderness, crusting, discharge, or swelling can occur with infection, but similar features can come from eczema, irritation, bites, or other conditions. Cellulitis is one example of an infection that may need prescribed antibiotics. A clinician may check for an abscess because pus sometimes needs a procedure rather than medicine alone.

Use only the product and dose prescribed for you. Clean and protect the area as advised, do not pick at scabs or squeeze swelling, and wash hands before and after applying treatment. Tell the clinician about allergies, pregnancy, kidney or liver problems, and other medicines. Keep follow-up instructions, particularly if the infected area is near an eye or joint. Do not use an old prescription for a new-looking rash.

Arrange urgent assessment for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever, confusion, red streaks, skin blistering, or swelling around the eye. Emergency help is needed for trouble breathing, faintness, or swelling of the lips and tongue after an antibiotic. If the area is not improving as expected or becomes more painful, contact the prescriber rather than adding another product yourself.

Ask whether the problem is bacterial, whether a topical or oral medicine is appropriate, how to apply it, and which reaction means you should stop and seek help. Ask when the area should be reviewed.