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Is Metronidazole Good For Boils?

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Posted on Mon, 27 Apr 2015
Question: Can I used metronidazole for a boil armpit
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (16 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You'd better not

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
metronidazole is a potent antibiotic against anaerobic pathogens. Boils are usually caused by aerobic pathogens like staphylococci. Metronidazole is not a good choice against them. An extended spectrum synthetic penicillin like amoxicillin would be a good initial choice, unless there is suspicion of a MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) strain.

The pus has to be drained for the boil to heal. Sometimes it happens spontaneously. Sometimes surgical drainage must be tried.
The hot towel may help towards spontaneous drainage.

I hope I've helped!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (14 hours later)
Thank you for answering my question I have to go to the doctor so they can give me some antibiotic.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (3 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
You're welcome

Detailed Answer:
You're welcome!
The sooner you receive treatment, the easier the resolution.

Kind Regards!
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3817 Questions

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Is Metronidazole Good For Boils?

Brief Answer: You'd better not Detailed Answer: Hello, metronidazole is a potent antibiotic against anaerobic pathogens. Boils are usually caused by aerobic pathogens like staphylococci. Metronidazole is not a good choice against them. An extended spectrum synthetic penicillin like amoxicillin would be a good initial choice, unless there is suspicion of a MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) strain. The pus has to be drained for the boil to heal. Sometimes it happens spontaneously. Sometimes surgical drainage must be tried. The hot towel may help towards spontaneous drainage. I hope I've helped!