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Suggest Treatment For Cellulitis In The Lower Leg
Posted on
Mon, 27 Nov 2017
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 27 Nov 2017
Answered on
Mon, 19 May 2025
Last reviewed on
Question : I have been taking Doxycycline, 100mg twice a day for 2 1/2 weeks for a cellulitis in the lower leg of unknown origin. Ultrasounds for DVT were negative, but skin remains mildly sensitive and slightly red. Is there a risk of a particular bacteria developing resistance to the antibiotic by continuing the doxycycline ?
Brief Answer:
not necessarily
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
There is always a slight risk of resistance when antibiotics are taken not usually this occurs when more is taken than is needed for treating the infection.
If the infection were getting worse then changing the antibiotic might be recommended. However, if it is just slow to clear up, that is pretty typical for cellulitis and a longer course may just be needed to get rid of the infection. Make sure to take some probiotics when you get off the antibiotics to restore the normal bacteria in your gut
Regards,
Dr. Robinson
not necessarily
Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
There is always a slight risk of resistance when antibiotics are taken not usually this occurs when more is taken than is needed for treating the infection.
If the infection were getting worse then changing the antibiotic might be recommended. However, if it is just slow to clear up, that is pretty typical for cellulitis and a longer course may just be needed to get rid of the infection. Make sure to take some probiotics when you get off the antibiotics to restore the normal bacteria in your gut
Regards,
Dr. Robinson
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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