Methods for treating infection at the site of implantation of an orthopedic device in a human or animal subject. The methods include removing the orthopedic device, and implanting a replacement device. A surface of the replacement device is coated with an infection-inhibiting composition having a waxy matrix. The waxy matrix includes an infection-inhibiting material, such as a lipid, an antimicrobial agent, or a combination of a lipid and an antimicrobial agent.