Fucidin

(Fusidic Acid)

The active ingredient in Fucidin is fusidic acid. Fusidic acid is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria. It prevents the bacteria from growing further, thereby helping to treat the bacterial infection. Fusidic acid is effective against certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Follow all directions given by your doctor and read all the patient information that comes with Fucidin (the full prescribing information, labeling, and the medication leaflet). The following is a general guide:

• Clean and dry the affected area before applying. Wash your hands before and after using Fucidin. Apply a small amount of Fucidin cream or ointment to the infected area. Gently rub it in until it covers the skin with a thin layer.
• It is recommended to use Fucidin 2 to 3 times a day for 7 to 14 days or as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not use it longer than 14 days unless your healthcare provider says otherwise. Misuse may lead to bacteria becoming resistant, making future treatments less effective.
• If your doctor instructs you to use a dressing, you may apply it only once or twice a day.

Some mild or common side effects of Fucidin seen in use include:

• Itching, burning, stinging, or irritation at the application site.
• Redness or skin rash (dermatitis).
• Skin dryness.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Fucidin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of allergic reaction such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, throat, trouble breathing, or severe rash.
• Eye irritation or eye redness if the cream or ointment accidentally gets into or near your eyes (conjunctivitis).
• Severe skin blistering, swelling, or worsening of the skin infection.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Fucidin. Always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your skin condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse reactions to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or your local equivalent.

Before using Fucidin, talk to your healthcare provider about any health conditions or allergies you have, including if you:

• Allergy to other topical antibiotics.
• Skin sensitivity, eczema, or dermatitis.

• Have a known allergy to fusidic acid or any inactive ingredient in Fucidin.

Many people begin to see improvements within a few days of starting treatment. With regular application over 7 to 14 days, most mild skin infections clear up. If the skin infection does not significantly improve within two weeks or if it gets worse, contact your doctor.

When Fucidin is used with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Other topical antibiotics.

Fucidin is available as a 2% fusidic acid cream and 2% sodium fusidate ointment. The Fucidin cream is an off-white to white cream, and the Fucidin ointment is a yellowish to white ointment.

Inactive ingredients in the cream include a-rac-α-tocopherol, butylhydroxyanisole (E320), cetyl alcohol, glycerol (85%), hydrochloric acid, white soft paraffin, liquid paraffin, polysorbate 60, potassium sorbate, and purified water. Inactive ingredients in the ointment include all-rac-α-tocopherol, butylhydroxytoluene (E321), cetyl alcohol, white soft paraffin, liquid paraffin, and wool fat (lanolin).

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Fucidin is manufactured by Leo Pharma.

Yes, there is a generic version of Fucidin. The generic name is fusidic acid.

Use Fucidin only for the time prescribed by your healthcare provider, which is usually 14 days. If symptoms return or worsen, contact your doctor for medical advice.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. While Fucidin is applied to the skin and systemic absorption is low, your doctor will weigh the benefits and possible risks based on the size and location of the infection.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Since Fucidin is used topically, the systemic absorption is minimal. Your doctor will weigh the risks and benefits of using Fucidin. If your doctor approves, avoid applying it directly to breast skin that could contact the baby.