Topical Versus Oral Antibiotic Therapy
Although treatments are dependent upon the type of infection and microbe involved, there are several advantages of treating a skin infection with a topical antibiotic instead of a systemic, or oral, antibiotic. In the setting of postoperative wound care, some topical antibiotics were as effective or more effective at reducing bacterial counts. Additionally, research shows that patients prefer topical agents to oral medications.
Advantages of topical therapy
- Avoidance of systemic toxicity and side effects
- Decreased bacterial resistance
- High concentration of antibacterial agent at the site of infection
- Versatility
- Can be used both as prophylaxis and treatment
Disadvantages of topical therapy
- Multiple doses per day for up to 10 days
- Patients may not comply or have difficulty with application instructions
- Dispensing waste
