Unlikely: For antibiotic therapy, the chosen agent must provide coverage against both Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The prevalence of methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) and macrolide-resistant Streptococcus has changed empiric treatment options for impetigo, and relying upon OTC meds is not appropriate, with risks that can be life-threatening. Good luck.
Answered 11/5/2014
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Yes and no: Over the counter antibiotic creams can be used to treat this, however, they are not nearly as effective as prescription. Also, if you have a resistant organism (such as MRSA), they won't work at all. I would try them, as well as washing the area 3x daily with a non-irritating soap and water, and keeping the area loosely covered if possible. Don't touch or pick at the lesions. Good luck!
Answered 9/8/2015
3.6k views
Maybe: Impetigo is a skin infection usually caused by staph or strep organisms. If your skin infection is very small and very superficial you may be able to keep area clean and use an antibacterial soap and topical antibiotic ointment like bacitracin or polysporin (bacitracin and polymyxin) if you are not allergic to these. For larger infection, you should see a doctor and be RX'ed with oral antibiotics. Contagious potential.
Answered 8/30/2018
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