First line antibiotics

If local measures have proved ineffective or there is evidence of cellulitis, spreading infection or systemic involvement, one of the following first-line antibiotics can be used.
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is preferred due to its narrower spectrum of activity, which is less likely to drive antimicrobial resistance. However, amoxicillin may be more appropriate for those patients where compliance is likely to be more challenging.
Before prescribing antibiotics, refer to the BNF or BNFC for drug interactions.
Advise patients to space out doses as much as possible throughout the day.
If the patient does not respond to the prescribed antibiotic, check the diagnosis and consider referral to a specialist.

Phenoxymethylpenicillin