Bacterial infections can stop skin from healing. Bacteria also cause inflammation of the
affected
area and can cause further damage to skin cells. In order to help the healing process, doctors prescribe antibacterials, such as topical ALTABAX. Antibacterials stop the bacteria from growing so that the body may heal the skin. To make sure your infection heals properly, always follow your doctor's instructions exactly. Do not stop taking or applying your medicine, even if it looks like your infection is improving.
Here are some tips to help your impetigo infection heal properly:
- Clean the affected area as directed by your doctor
- Apply a thin layer of ALTABAX to the affected area twice a day for 5 days
- If directed by your doctor, the treated area should be covered by a bandage
- Be sure to use ALTABAX for the full 5 days, even though the skin infection seems to be getting better
- Call your doctor if there is no improvement in symptoms within 3 to 4 days after starting use of ALTABAX
- If you have any questions, please contact your doctor
Signs an Infection May Be Getting Worse
If a skin infection does not heal, or gets worse, you will need to see a doctor. Some signs that an infection is getting worse include:
- Spreading of redness around the infection
- Affected area becomes very painful
- Fever
- Abnormally low body temperature