Skin Abscess, Boil and Carbuncle: Drug Therapy

Therapeutic Target

Elimination of the pathogens

Therapy recommendations

  • In the case of an incipient boil, the application of ichthyol (ammonium bituminosulfonate) can promote purulent fusion.
  • If an abscess cavity (“pus cavity”) is present, it should be drained with a stab incision (making an incision with a scalpel) (a boil on the face should not be opened). This should be followed by antiseptic therapy with polyhexanide, polyvidone, octenidine or chlorhexidine.
  • If necessary, antibiosis
  • See also under “Further therapy“.

Note: The antiseptic chlorhexidine may cause an anaphylactic reaction in rare cases.

Supplements (dietary supplements; vital substances)

Appropriate dietary supplements for natural defense should contain the following vital substances:

Note: The listed vital substances are not a substitute for drug therapy. Food supplements are intended to supplement the general diet in the particular life situation.