Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Forth Valley
Important: Therapy
Ceftriaxone 2g IV 24 hourly
Cellulitis - Moderate
Important: Therapy
Linezolid 600mg PO 12 hourly
Notes:
(risk of serious drug interactions with linezolid – check BNF or discuss with senior clinician or pharmacy)
Important: Notes
Bilateral lower limb cellulitis is uncommon - consider other causes of soft tissue changes e.g. venous eczema before prescribing antibiotics
Mark area and review regularly.
Exclude signs of systemic infection and abscess formation.
It is recommended to send swab(s) for culture where there has been poor clinical response to an empirical antibiotic previously or where antibiotic options are limited e.g. allergy, drug interaction. Even if no break in skin a firm swab of most cellulitic area may yield pathogen to guide management.
Treatment duration:5-7 days