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Suggest Treatment For Cellulitis On The Lower Legs And Inner Thighs
Question: I have a minor case of cellulitis on the lower half of my left inner thigh, probably due to an overly tight elastic bandage supporting a sprained knee, although I did open up the skin on the kneecap during a fall five weeks ago. My doctor gave me 800mg Septra BID starting yesterday. I am wary of this antibiotic after reading it's side-effect profile. I am 65 years of age, 5' 11" and weigh 180 lbs. Would the Septra work if I lowered the dose to 400 mg BID?
What is the lowest dose of Septra I can take where it will have a some positive effect?
What is the lowest dose of Septra I can take where it will have a some positive effect?
Brief Answer:
NO, you need at least 800mg BID for best results.
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about your heightened concerns at the possible side effects of this drug. Truth be told, there is no drug that doesn’t have side effects. All drugs in the strictest sense are poisons and the only reason for using them is that the side effects and potential risk is less than the gains. Another fact is that potential side effects happen in a very few number of persons who take these drugs. Before a drug is allowed on the market, the authorities have done so much work to guarantee that whoever takes it is safe. For these reasons, don’t get too scared taking this medication.
As concerns the dose, the possible side effects are not dose related but ingredient related. reducing the dosage would rather expose you the same potential side effects at doses that would not be helpful to you.
In all, knowing side effects should not scare you from taking this drug. It is better because you would be aware of the possible side effects, help in early diagnosis and management of any possible side effects that would go a long way to mitigate any potential damage from it.
I encourage you to continue the drug at this recommended dosage. If you notice any abnormality, report for evaluation and management. Many people never report any problems taking this drug.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
NO, you need at least 800mg BID for best results.
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.
I am so sorry to hear about your heightened concerns at the possible side effects of this drug. Truth be told, there is no drug that doesn’t have side effects. All drugs in the strictest sense are poisons and the only reason for using them is that the side effects and potential risk is less than the gains. Another fact is that potential side effects happen in a very few number of persons who take these drugs. Before a drug is allowed on the market, the authorities have done so much work to guarantee that whoever takes it is safe. For these reasons, don’t get too scared taking this medication.
As concerns the dose, the possible side effects are not dose related but ingredient related. reducing the dosage would rather expose you the same potential side effects at doses that would not be helpful to you.
In all, knowing side effects should not scare you from taking this drug. It is better because you would be aware of the possible side effects, help in early diagnosis and management of any possible side effects that would go a long way to mitigate any potential damage from it.
I encourage you to continue the drug at this recommended dosage. If you notice any abnormality, report for evaluation and management. Many people never report any problems taking this drug.
I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and do feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
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
Answered by
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