Prophylactic antibiotics

[lynebank]

Prophylactic antibiotics for cellulitis does it work

[Knoxy9]

Hi been on prophylactic for around a year now due to 3 bouts of cellulitis in arm. Each one seemed to do damage and make swelling worse. I got so freaked out about another infection that doctor recommended. They have been fine and no infection or issues during that time. I am however concerned about being on them too long and developing resistance causing more issues further down track. Would also b interested to hear others experiences.

[Jbrooks18 in reply to Knoxy9]

I have been on antibiotics for 2 years and was due to come off them in November.Doctor has keep me on for now due to current situation. Had 3 bouts of cellulitis, one hospitalized, within 4 months so put on them. Low dose but has not recurred. Agree that they allow you to stop constant worry that it will return and lead a more normal life. Think I’d stay on them permanently if it were an option.

[ponygirl]

Hi Lynebank, I have been on prophylactic antibiotics for coming up to two years now due to recurrent cellulitis in my right leg. They really do work and also enabled me to relax and enjoy life rather than worrying about my skin all the time. The first year I was on a high dose and this second year has been on a lower dose. I had a slight breakthrough when dropping from high to low dose but it soon cleared. I think the plan is to come off the altogether in the new year when I will find out whether I am clear, or, if it recurs I may have to take them for life. I do recommend them as the small chance of becoming antibiotic resistant is much outweighed by the freedom you get by being clear of cellulitis and confidently able to get on with your life. I hope this helps and good luck!

[bulldogbyrne]

I have been on them for a couple of months now so not sure. But I had 4 or 5 episodes of cellulitis last year so I am hoping they work. I have developed intolerance to fluclox now so I on erythromycin.I was unsure about starting for over a year and antibiotics have side effects which I do not like but have to try them now. I will only know next year if they are working....

[WestWalesPaul]

I’ve been taking prophylactic ab’s for many years now and still get bouts of cellulitis. My left leg is a mess and following a bad fall in October it’s huge! I can’t get my stockings on atm either because of the burn which doesn’t help it. I’m very unsure about being a-b resistant and changed them earlier this year after speaking to the lymph nurse and my GP.

Everyone is different and what works for some won’t work for others, I suppose?

Hoping that they will work for you!

[AuntyJane]

After several bouts of cellulitis in my arm with lymphedema (each episode required 14 days of Augmentin) the infectious disease doctor put me on low dose of doxycycline 50mg daily. However antibiotics can wreak havoc on your gut and I ended up having severe stomach pain due to stomach irritation caused by antibiotics.