What criteria should I use to decide whether to prescribe oral antibiotics for impetigo?

Prescribe oral antibiotics for impetigo if topical treatment, such as hydrogen peroxide 1% cream, is ineffective for localized non-bullous impetigo ¹.

Consider oral antibiotics if impetigo becomes widespread after initial topical treatment ¹.

Use oral antibiotics when topical antibiotics are unsuccessful, especially if there is a risk of inadequate application or coverage of all infected areas ¹.

In cases of recurrent impetigo, microbiological testing and possible decolonization should be considered, and antibiotics prescribed based on microbiological results ¹.

Opt for oral antibiotics when the infection is moderate or severe, or if there is clinical judgment that oral therapy is more appropriate than topical treatment ¹.