From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
When antibiotics are unavailable, the primary approach to managing infections should focus on supportive care, including wound cleaning, use of antiseptics, and boosting the immune system through rest, hydration, and nutrition. In the absence of antibiotics, several strategies can help manage infections.
- Focus on wound care by thoroughly cleaning infected areas with clean water and soap, applying antiseptic solutions like hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine, or alcohol if available, and using clean dressings changed regularly.
- Natural antimicrobials such as honey (particularly manuka honey), garlic (crushed and applied topically or consumed), and tea tree oil (diluted to 5-10% in carrier oil) can help fight infection 1.
- Warm salt water (1-2 teaspoons salt per cup of water) can be used for gargling with throat infections or cleaning wounds.
- Boosting the immune system through adequate rest, hydration, and nutrition is crucial.
- For fever management, use antipyretics like acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4000mg daily) or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food). These approaches work by either directly killing microbes, reducing their growth, or supporting the body's natural defenses. However, serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, or severe cellulitis require professional medical care, and these measures should be considered temporary until proper medical treatment can be obtained 2, 3. It's also important to note that antiviral agents like acyclovir can be effective against herpes simplex virus infections, and their use should be considered based on the type of infection and the patient's immune status 4, 5.