Medicines Used for Bacterial skin infections
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം
Bacterial skin infections happen when bacteria get into the skin, often through a cut, bite, crack or other break, causing redness, warmth, swelling and pain. Common types include cellulitis, an infection of the deeper layers of skin, and impetigo, a contagious infection with crusty, golden-brown sores. Depending on the type and severity, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic cream or antibiotic tablets, and severe infections may need hospital treatment. Get urgent help if a red, swollen area spreads quickly or comes with fever, shivering, fast breathing, dizziness or confusion.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
Medicines used for Bacterial skin infections
These active ingredients are in medicines whose approved uses include Bacterial skin infections. Brands are listed A to Z, not ranked. A doctor or pharmacist decides which medicine is right for you.
Amoxicillin
- Augmentin 625 Duo · 500 mg film-coated tablet
Azithromycin
- Azithral 500 · 500 mg film-coated tablet
Clavulanic acid
- Augmentin 625 Duo · 125 mg film-coated tablet
Ofloxacin
- Oflox 200 · 200 mg film-coated tablet
Common questions
How long does a bacterial skin infection take to get better with antibiotics?
With cellulitis, the skin may look worse in the first 48 hours before it starts to improve, and most people recover in 7 to 10 days. See a doctor again if you do not feel better 2 to 3 days after starting antibiotics. Finish the full course, even if the skin looks better.
Can skin infections spread to other people?
Impetigo spreads easily through skin contact and shared towels or bedding, and stops being contagious about 48 hours after starting prescribed treatment. Cellulitis is not usually caught from other people. Washing hands often, keeping sores covered and clean, and not sharing towels help prevent spread.
Sources
- Cellulitis. NHS (UK)
- Impetigo. NHS (UK)
- Ofloxacin tablets: prescribing information (Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, revised 3/2023). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- ZITHROMAX (azithromycin) tablets and oral suspension: full prescribing information. Pfizer, US FDA-approved labeling
