How Long Should You Take Antibiotics for Burn Treatment?

How long should antibiotics be taken for a burn?

Hello, Doctor.
On the evening of May 16, I accidentally burned my calf with a hot rod for about one second.
The epidermis was pushed to one side, but it did not break or blister.
I immediately rinsed it with cold water and applied Neosporin ointment.
After researching online, I found that artificial skin can be applied without ointment, so I used a cotton swab to remove the ointment and then applied the artificial skin.
On May 19, after prolonged exercise, a large blister formed, and it burst with a light touch, leaking fluid through the gaps in the artificial skin.
When changing the artificial skin, half of the epidermis on the wound was torn off.
On May 21, the area around the wound showed slight redness, swelling, and warmth.
I consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed it as a second-degree burn with mild inflammation.
The total burn area is 4.5 x 1.5 cm.
The doctor prescribed DEPYRETIN for pain relief and CEPHALEXIN as an antibiotic, to be taken four times a day (morning, noon, evening, and before bed).
After taking the first dose, the redness, swelling, and warmth of the wound subsided.
I have now been on antibiotics for 12 days, and the doctor said the wound is healing well.

I have a few questions:
1.
Is it generally recommended to continue taking antibiotics until the wound is completely healed? Can I stop the medication?
2.
Since I am continuously taking Yaz birth control pills, will taking CEPHALEXIN two hours before the birth control pill affect its efficacy?
3.
I have heard that when taking antibiotics, it is necessary to supplement with probiotics.
Is this needed? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/02

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
There is no standard answer; it depends on the actual condition of the wound.
2.
No, it will not.
3.
There is no need for short-term use.

Reply Date: 2024/06/02

More Info

When it comes to the use of antibiotics for burn treatment, it's essential to understand the purpose and duration of antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent or treat infections that can occur in wounds, including burns. In your case, since you have been diagnosed with a second-degree burn and have shown signs of inflammation, the use of antibiotics like Cephalexin is appropriate to combat any potential bacterial infection.

1. Duration of Antibiotic Use: Generally, antibiotics should be taken for the duration prescribed by your physician, which is often based on the severity of the injury and the risk of infection. In many cases, antibiotics are continued until the wound shows significant signs of healing, which can vary from person to person. If your doctor has indicated that your wound is healing well after 12 days of antibiotic treatment, it may be appropriate to discuss with them whether you can stop the medication. However, it is crucial not to discontinue antibiotics prematurely, as this can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria or allow an infection to worsen.

2. Impact on Birth Control: Regarding your concern about the interaction between Cephalexin and your birth control pills, studies have shown that most antibiotics do not significantly affect the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. However, some antibiotics can potentially reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, particularly if they cause gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea. Since you are taking Cephalexin and have not reported any such side effects, it is likely that your contraceptive method remains effective. Nonetheless, it is always wise to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

3. Probiotics During Antibiotic Therapy: The use of probiotics while taking antibiotics is a topic of ongoing research. Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to side effects such as diarrhea or yeast infections. Taking probiotics may help restore this balance and reduce the risk of these side effects. While there is no strict requirement to take probiotics, many healthcare professionals recommend them, especially if you experience gastrointestinal discomfort during antibiotic treatment. If you decide to take probiotics, it is advisable to space them out from your antibiotic doses to maximize their effectiveness.

In summary, continue taking the antibiotics as prescribed until you have a follow-up appointment with your doctor, who can assess the healing of your burn and determine if it is safe to discontinue the medication. Discuss any concerns about interactions with your birth control and the potential benefits of probiotics with your healthcare provider. Proper wound care, including keeping the area clean and protected, is also essential for optimal healing. If you notice any worsening symptoms or new signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

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