13.10.1.2. Antibacterial preparations also used systemically
| Choice | Drug |
|---|
| 1st choice | Fusidic acid 2% cream
Sodium fusidate 2% ointment |
| Or |
| Metronidazole 0.75% cream/gel |
| |
Prescribing notes
- To avoid the development of resistance, fusidic acid should only be used for localised infections and not be used for longer than 7 days.
- For acute impetigo, refer to Primary Care Antibiotic Guidelines (note hydrogen peroxide 1% is first line for localized non-bullous impetigo)
- Topical antibacterials should be avoided in leg ulcers unless used for short courses for defined infections; treatment of bacterial colonization is generally inappropriate
- Metronidazole gel is helpful for secondary infections of fungating tumours
