Wound infections
The regional formulary will not cover all eventualities for infections medicines choices. As with any condition; patient specific factors and sensitivities need to be considered. Please consider this regional formulary advice alongside any relevant local Board guidelines.
Surgical wounds, abscesses and wound infection
Flucloxacillin
Flucloxacillin 500mg capsules
500mg every 6 hours for 7 days.
If allergic to penicillin.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline 100mg capsules
200mg on day 1, then 100mg daily for 7 days in total.
Prescribing Notes:
- Flucloxacillin has adequate streptococcal cover; therefore, it is not necessary to prescribe penicillin in addition, for empirical treatment of non-severe cellulitis. If there has been exposure to river or sea water, discuss treatment with a microbiologist.
- All wounds have potential for bacterial infection and may become colonised, but swabs should only be taken if there are clinical signs of infection.
- Prescription of antibiotics should not delay appropriate surgical management e.g. drainage or aspiration of an abscess.
History Notes
30/07/2026
Regional formulary chapter launched.