An alternative to topical antibiotics in the treatment of superficial primary and secondary skin infections, such as impetigo.
What is Crystacide cream used for?
Crystacide cream contains hydrogen peroxide 1%, a potent antibacterial agent with effect against Gram-positive as well as Gram-negative bacteria. It is intended for topical treatment of primary and secondary superficial skin infections caused by organisms sensitive to hydrogen peroxide, such as impetigo. Crystacide’s lipid-stabilised formulation has bactericidal activity equal to that of a 1% aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, and the duration of action is longer for the cream.⁴
Impetigo is a highly contagious disease, and the purpose of treatment is to clear the infection as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of spread of infection.
Hydrogen peroxide cream 1% is as effective as a topical antibiotic in the treatment of impetigo.¹
Recommended by NICE
NICE recommends a five-day course of hydrogen peroxide cream 1%, applied 2-3 times day as first-line treatment for localised, non-bullous impetigo in patients who are not systemically unwell or at high risk of complications.¹
The NICE committee noted
“Impetigo is highly infectious, and the committee agreed that treatment is important to limit the spread of infection and the worsening of symptoms, and to hasten recovery. A faster recovery is also likely to mean less time off school, nursery or work.”
“The evidence suggested that hydrogen peroxide 1% cream (a topical antiseptic) is as effective as a topical antibiotic for treating impetigo. Impetigo was cured or improved in a large proportion of people using hydrogen peroxide.”
“Based on the available evidence, the committee agreed that the long-term benefits of good antimicrobial stewardship, in combination with the low risk of adverse events compared with using a topical antibiotic, outweighed the additional cost of hydrogen peroxide 1% cream.”
