GENERIC NAME: FUSIDIC ACID, FUSIDATE SODIUM - TOPICAL CREAM, OINTMENT, GEL
Fusidic acid is a bacteriostatic antibiotic that is often used topically in creams and eyedrops, but may also be given systemically as tablets or injections. The global problem of advancing antimicrobial resistance has led to a renewed interest in its use recently.
Fusidic acid and sodium fusidate may be used alone or in combination with systemic therapy in the treatment of primary and secondary skin infections caused by sensitive strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species and Corynebacterium minutissimum . Some of these skin infections include:
•Impetigo (school sores)
•Folliculitis
•Erythrasma
•Paronychia
•Infected dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis
•Infected cuts and abrasions
Fusidic acid is an antibiotic medicine. It works by entering bacterial cells and interfering with the production of proteins that the bacteria need to divide and multiply. It does not directly kill the bacteria, but leaves them unable to increase in numbers. The existing bacteria eventually die or are destroyed by the immune system. Fusidic acid is included in this preparation to treat the bacterial infection that can sometimes occur in eczema.
A small amount of cream or ointment should be applied to the affected area three or four times daily. If covering the lesion with gauze dressing less frequent application (once or twice daily) may be adequate.
Any ointment left over at the end of treatment should be discarded. It is essential to use fusidic acid only as directed by your doctor as indiscriminate use can lead to the development of bacterial resistance.
Do not use large amounts, apply this more often or use this for longer than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. Use carefully if applying to the face. Avoid contact in or around the eyes.
Local hypersensitivity reactions to fusidic acid include mild stinging and irritation. In most cases therapy may be continued, however if the reaction is severe treatment should be stopped and the cream or ointment rinsed off. Contact allergic dermatitis to fusidic acid is rare.
The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
•Skin irritation, eg itching, burning, stinging.
•Rash.
•Worsening of eczema.
•Skin thinning, thread veins or stretch marks (prolonged use only).
•Groupings of fine blood vessels becoming prominent under the skin (telangiectasia).
•Inflammation of hair follicles (folliculitis).
•Decreased skin pigmentation at application area.
•Puffiness of skin on the face.
Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing illness, infections, allergies (especially to any antibiotics). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication has been found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. If it is applied to the breasts it should be washed off carefully before breastfeeding and then reapplied afterwards.
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