Bactroban: The Alternative to Neosporin

BACTROBAN

Bactroban is a brand name medication for mupirocin, an antibiotic that treats skin infections caused by bacteria. It is not effective against fungal and viral infections.

Bactroban comes in ointment form and is applied to the infected area. It is usually applied 3 times a day for 1 to 2 weeks. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Make sure to wash the affected skin area first before applying bactroban. Gently appy a small amount to the infection and cover the area with a bandage or gauze. Do not apply bactroban to your eyes, mouth, nose or burns.

Side effects to Bactroban only include burning, stinging, pain, itching or rash. Before using Bactroban, please find out from your doctor if you are allergic to mupirocin or any other drugs. Also notify your doctor if you are taking other medications or are pregnant.

If you miss a dose for whatever reasons, apply the missed does as soon as you remember it. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dose schedule. Do not apply a double dose at once.

You can purchase Bactroban at any convenience store, drug store, or supermarket.

Cellulitis: A Bacterial Infection

cellu

Cellulitis is a common skin infection caused by bacteria. It usually begins as a small area of tenderness, swelling, and redness. As the area grows, the person infected may develop a fever, chills, sweats and swollen lymph nodes. Cellulitis is most commonly seen on lower legs, although it can occur anywhere on your body or face. This is a serious skin infection and may be life-threatening if left untreated.

Cellulitis is caused by bacteria; the two most common ones are staphylococcus and streptococcus. Some risk factors for acquiring cellulitis include: cracking skin between toes, skin wounds, insect bites, ulcers from diabetes, medications that suppress the immune system, and recent surgery wounds.

Symptoms for this condition include:

  • Fever, chills, fatigue
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Redness or inflammation
  • Skin sore or rash
  • Tight, glossy, stretched skin
  • Warmth in infected area
  • Nausea

The good news is that cellulitis is not contagious and can be treated with a prescription antibiotic. Your doctor will most likely start you on an oral antibiotic and check up with you in the following 2-3 days, making sure you continue the medication for 2 full weeks. The symptoms generally clear up after a few days.

Preventing from future infections is crucial as well. Make sure to wash any skin wound you acquire with soap and water and apply antibiotic ointment right away. Also, daily good skin-care measures will be very beneficial towards preventing unwanted skin conditions such as cellulitis.