What is topical fusidic acid?

Fusidic acid is an antibiotic. It can be used systemically or topically. 

Fusidic acid 2% cream and sodium fusidate 2% ointment are active against a wide range of bacteria that can be found in cutaneous skin infections. In New Zealand, it is available only with a doctor's prescription.

What is fusidic acid used for?

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

How should it be used?

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.

Warnings and precautions for use

Local 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.