Fusidic acid for skin infections

About fusidic acid cream/ointment

Fusidic acid is prescribed for skin infections caused by germs called staphylococcal bacteria. Such infections include impetigo, infected cuts and grazes, and infected dermatitis. It works by stopping the growth of the germs causing the infection. Sodium fusidate is a salt of fusidic acid and it works in the same way. You may find this name being given as the ingredient if you have been prescribed an ointment to use.

Fusidic acid cream and sodium fusidate ointment are antibacterial preparations which usually clear skin infection quickly, particularly where the infection only covers a small area. If the infection is more widespread, antibiotic tablets or a liquid medicine may be needed (see the separate medicine leaflet called Sodium fusidate for infections for more information about this).

If the area of skin is inflamed as well as infected, your doctor may prescribe a cream which combines fusidic acid with an anti-inflammatory agent, such as hydrocortisone (brand name Fucidin® H) or betamethasone (brand names Fucibet® and Xemacort®).

Before using fusidic acid cream/ointment

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine can only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using the preparation it is important that your doctor or dentist knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding (although fusidic acid is not known to be harmful to a baby).

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine, or to any skin preparation.

How to apply fusidic acid cream/ointment

• Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about how to use the brand of cream or ointment you have been supplied with, and it will also provide you with a full list of side-effects which you could experience.

• Use the preparation exactly as your doctor tells you to. Apply a thin layer of cream/ointment to the infected area and rub it in gently. Unless you have been told otherwise, use it 3-4 times a day. Remember to wash your hands well after you have finished using it (unless you are using it to treat your hands).

• Only use it for as long as your doctor has instructed you to. A course of treatment typically lasts for around seven days. You should not use the cream or ointment for longer than 10 days.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your skin should start to improve after a few days of treatment. If you think the treatment is not working after this time you should let your doctor know. Sometimes an infection can be resistant to a particular antibiotic and an alternative antibiotic is needed. Likewise, if the infection has not gone by the time you have completed the course of treatment, make another appointment to see your doctor.

• Many skin infections are contagious and can be passed on by touching. To help reduce the risk of this, try to avoid touching the infected area other than when applying the preparation, and use separate towels and facecloths to those used by other members of your family.

• If you are using the preparation near your face, be careful not to get it into your eyes. If this does happen, rinse it off with plenty of warm water.

Can fusidic acid cream/ointment cause problems?

Fusidic acid skin preparations may occasionally cause irritation, although this is usually mild and not troublesome.

Allergic reactions can occur rarely. If you develop a severe rash, you should contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice as soon as possible.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the preparation, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fusidic acid cream/ointment

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines