Overview of Antibiotic Creams for Skin Infections

Antibiotic creams are topical medications that contain antibiotics to treat or prevent skin infections caused by bacteria. They are commonly used for minor cuts, burns, and wounds to aid in the healing process and prevent bacterial growth.
Category
Medication
Where to get
Available over-the-counter at pharmacies and drugstores
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Antibiotic Creams FAQ


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What is an antibiotic ointment?

Ointments are creams and gels you can put on your skin to kill bacteria. They can be very effective sometimes. For example, if you have a rash or an infected cut, an ointment can help it heal. Antibiotic creams are not usually dangerous and are very effective if used at the right time.

What are topical antibiotics?

Topical antibiotics are antibiotics that have been manufactured into a cream or an ointment and can be applied directly to the skin. Antibiotics are medicines that destroy or inhibit the growth of susceptible bacteria.

Are antibiotic creams safe?

They can be very effective sometimes. For example, if you have a rash or an infected cut, an ointment can help it heal. Antibiotic creams are not usually dangerous and are very effective if used at the right time. However, they have some risks as you may get an allergic reaction from using them.

How to use a lotion or cream antibiotic?

When applying a lotion or cream antibiotic, one needs to read all the instructions on the product packaging or follow the doctor’s advice. Ensure that the hands are clean before one starts to use the medication. One should also prevent the medicines from penetrating the mouth or eyes.

What are antibiotics used for?

Antibiotics are a group of medicines that are used to treat infections caused by some germs (bacteria and certain parasites). A parasite is a type of germ that needs to live on or in another living being (host). Antibiotics do not work against infections that are caused by viruses - for example, the common cold or flu.

Antibiotic Creams References

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