What medication should be used for scald burns from boiling water?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Commonly used medications for scald burns include mupirocin ointment, moist burn ointment, recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel, ibuprofen tablets, and loratadine tablets. The wound should be cleaned before applying any medication, and the choice of drug should be made according to the severity of the burn and symptoms, following medical advice. Seek prompt medical attention if the burn covers a large area, is deep, or is accompanied by fever. Mupirocin ointment: suitable for superficial burns with risk of infection.

Commonly used medications for scalds from boiling water include mupirocin ointment, moist burn ointment, recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel, ibuprofen tablets, and loratadine tablets. The wound should be cleaned before applying any medication, and the choice of drug should be made according to the severity of the burn and symptoms, following medical advice. If the burn covers a large area, is deep, or accompanied by fever, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Mupirocin Ointment: Suitable for superficial burns with risk of infection. After cleaning the wound, apply a thin layer once or twice daily. It inhibits bacterial growth, prevents wound infection and pus formation, and avoids delayed healing due to infection.

2. Moist Burn Ointment: Appropriate for superficial second-degree burns. It helps maintain a moist wound environment, relieves pain, and promotes tissue regeneration. Apply evenly as directed, and reapply promptly based on exudation to maintain effectiveness.

3. Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor Gel: Used for superficial second-degree and more severe burns. After cleaning the wound, apply the gel to stimulate epidermal cell growth, accelerate wound healing, reduce scar formation, and support skin repair.

4. Ibuprofen Tablets: Used when there is significant pain from the burn. Take orally, following dosage instructions. It relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, helping to prevent discomfort from interfering with rest and wound recovery.

5. Loratadine Tablets: Used for itching around the burn site during healing or if an allergic reaction occurs. Taken orally, it reduces allergic responses and itchiness, preventing secondary injury from scratching.

In daily care, keep the burned area clean and away from dirt, wear loose clothing to minimize friction, avoid contact with water until the wound heals, and consume protein-rich foods such as eggs and milk to support skin repair.