Case 3 - Atopic Eczema & Impetigo Drugs

Question 1

Provide two pharmacological treatments for atopic eczema and impetigo

Answer 1

Topical corticosteroids (hydrocortisone)
Flucloxacillin

Question 2

Describe the indications of flucloxacillin

Answer 2

Flucloxacillin is used to treat infections due to beta-lactamase-producing staphylococci such as impetigo

Question 3

State class of medication of flucloxacillin and describe its relevant precautions

Answer 3

Flucloxacillin is a class of drugs named penicillin.

Patients should be tested for penicillin allergies before being administered this medication. Administration with paracetamol should be avoided or closely monitored.

Question 4

Describe the mechanism of action of flucloxacillin

Answer 4

Flucloxacillin acts by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls by binding to specific penicillin-binding proteins located inside these walls.

Question 5

Describe the common adverse effects of flucloxacillin

Answer 5

Flucloxacillin can cause severe liver damage, making skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow in colour (usually in older patients).

Can also cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Question 6

Provide any relevant patient advice for flucloxacillin

Answer 6

Take flucloxacillin capsules whole, one hour before food on an empty stomach (for better absorption).

Question 7

Describe the indications of hydrocortisone

Answer 7

Flucloxacillin is used to treat mild inflammatory skin disorders.

Question 8

State class of medication of hydrocortisone and describe its relevant precautions

Answer 8

Hydrocortisone is part of the class of drugs called corticosteroids.

Hydrocortisone should be avoided in children under two years of age. The use of corticosteroids should be managed, especially in children.

Question 9

Describe the mechanism of action of hydrocortisone

Answer 9

Hydrocortisone diffuses across cell membranes to form complexes with specific cytoplasmic receptors.

These complexes enter the nucleus of the cell, bind to DNA, and stimulate the transcription of messenger RNA and subsequent protein synthesis of enzymes responsible for anti-inflammatory effects.

Question 10

Describe the common adverse effects of hydrocortisone

Answer 10

Adverse effects of hydrocortisone include thinning of the skin, burning sensations and worsening of the skin condition.

Question 11

Provide any relevant patient advice for flucloxacillin

Answer 11

Topical corticosteroids should only be applied to the affected areas. If using medication for more than 2 weeks, contact your doctor for monitoring.