OTC Treatment for Impetigo

Although the typical treatment for impetigo involves antibiotic medications, a healthcare provider may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment option. For impetigo, hydrogen peroxide cream may sometimes be used as a nonprescription alternative to topical antibiotics.
 
OTC treatment options may be used if the impetigo is less severe. However, research has shown that options such as Neosporin® (bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B) may not be effective. They can also irritate the skin that is affected by impetigo.
 
(Click Impetigo Treatment for a more in-depth look at using OTC medications for treatment. This article also discusses using prescription antibiotic medications, such as oral and topical antibiotics, for treating this skin infection).