Evidence supporting the use of: Boric acid
For the health condition: Impetigo

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Boric acid has been used historically as an antiseptic and mild astringent in the treatment of various skin conditions, including impetigo. Its use is primarily rooted in traditional medical practice rather than robust scientific evidence. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, boric acid solutions were commonly recommended for topical cleansing and as adjuncts in managing superficial skin infections due to their mild antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, with the advent of modern antibiotics and improved understanding of bacterial skin infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (the primary pathogens in impetigo), boric acid has largely fallen out of favor in contemporary clinical practice.

Current clinical guidelines do not support the use of boric acid as a first-line or adjunct treatment for impetigo. There is a lack of high-quality, controlled studies demonstrating its efficacy or safety for this indication. Additionally, concerns about boric acid toxicity, particularly in children, have further limited its use. The available evidence for boric acid in impetigo is minimal and largely anecdotal, with historical references rather than robust, modern clinical data. In summary, boric acid’s role in impetigo management is primarily historical, and its use today is discouraged due to limited efficacy data and potential safety concerns.

More about Boric acid
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Products containing Boric acid

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