Fucidin 2% Cream

Fusidic acid is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from growing. It is used for:

• skin infections, such as impetigo and infected cuts or eczema (cream or ointment)
• bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (eye drops)

It is also combined with a mild steroid in some creams to calm red, inflamed skin. Tablets and injections are usually kept for more serious infections.

Use it as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. Your infection should start to get better within a few days.

• Cream or ointment: wash your hands before and after use (unless treating your hands). Spread a thin layer and rub in gently, keeping it away from your eyes. Treatment usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks.
• It can dry onto clothes and bedding and make them catch fire more easily. Wash them often and keep away from flames and smoking.
• Eye drops: do not let the tip touch your eye. Keep using them for 2 days after the eye looks normal. Do not wear contact lenses until 24 hours after your last dose.
• Finish the course so the infection does not come back.
• If you miss a dose, use it when you remember, then carry on as normal.

Side effects of the cream or ointment are uncommon, but you may get some skin irritation. Eye drops commonly cause:

• burning, stinging, itching or dry eyes
• blurred vision for a few minutes after use

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• an eye infection that gets worse, or burning that does not stop
• itchy, raised skin (hives)
• swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to fusidic acid or any other medicine

No common medicines are known to cause problems with the cream, ointment or eye drops. Fusidic acid tablets and liquid are different: they should not be taken with statins (such as atorvastatin or simvastatin), as serious muscle damage has been reported. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep out of the reach of children. Throw away eye drops one month after first opening.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the cream, ointment and eye drops are considered safe, as very little reaches the baby. If you treat skin on the breast, wash it off before feeding, and wash your hands before handling your baby.

Driving: if eye drops blur your vision, wait until it clears before driving or using machines.

Muscle pain with tablets: if you take fusidic acid tablets and get muscle pain, weakness or tenderness, contact a doctor straight away.