What is Fucibet Cream used for?
Fucibet is an effective, prescription-only medication that is used to treat eczema when a bacterial infection is also present. With a dual-action formula, the active ingredients fusidic acid and betamethasone work together to treat the skin inflammation caused by eczema, while also fighting skin infections caused by the condition.
Fucibet is a fast-acting treatment, and applying the cream to the affected areas twice daily should result in an improvement in symptoms after just a couple of days. Fucibet can also be used to treat a number of other skin conditions (including dermatitis) that are accompanied by an infection.
How does Fucibet Cream work?
Fucibet Cream contains two active ingredients known as betamethasone and fusidic acid. Betamethasone is a steroid that helps to reduce the redness, inflammation and itchiness brought on by conditions like eczema and dermatitis, while fusidic acid is an antibiotic that helps to fight the bacteria that cause infections. Between them, these two ingredients help to treat the symptoms of eczema while clearing up related skin infections.
Fucibet Cream alternatives
There are a number of eczema and dermatitis treatments available, ranging from moisturising emollients to steroid medications specifically designed to treat flare-ups.
Mild steroid treatments include Hydrocortisone Cream or Eumovate Ointment, while stronger preparations include Betnovate Cream or Ointment.
If your eczema or dermatitis affects the scalp, a scalp treatment such as Betacap Solution can be used to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Emollient creams are often effective at easing the symptoms of eczema, as they are designed to moisturise and soothe the skin. Examples of emollients creams available include:
- E45 Cream
- Doublebase Gel
- Balneum Cream
- Dermol Cream
During a flare-up of eczema, there are also a number of self-help measures you can take to reduce symptoms and prevent infection. These measures include:
- Moisturising the skin at least twice daily
- Avoiding very hot baths or showers
- Avoiding any skin products that contain irritants
- Using gentle, non-perfumed soaps
- Trying to avoid scratching the affected area
How do I use Fucibet Cream?
To apply Fucibet Cream, simply follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the cream
- Gently rub a thin layer into the affected area(s) (a small amount goes a long way, so use a fingertip amount unless the affected area is particularly large)
- Leave it to soak in for at least 30 minutes before using any other skin products or moisturisers, to ensure it is completely absorbed into the skin
- Wash your hands thoroughly again after application (unless your hands are the affected area)
Fucibet Cream can be used for up to two weeks. If you don’t see an improvement within the first week of using Fucibet, you should stop using it and book an appointment with your GP.
Who is Fucibet Cream suitable for?
Fucibet is generally safe for most people to use, but due to its strong ingredients, it is rarely prescribed to children below the age of 5. For use by children under the age of 18, it’s best to book a face-to-face appointment with your GP, as they will be able to advise the best course of action.
Fucibet Cream side effects
Side effects rarely occur when using Fucibet Cream, but if you do experience side effects they may include:
- A skin rash
- Dry, itchy, or inflamed skin
- Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)
- Folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles)
If you are concerned about any potential side effects while using Fucibet Cream (or if you experience a painful or severe reaction) you should consult your GP or pharmacist.
Fucibet Cream warnings
Fucibet Cream is not normally recommended for use on the face, as the active ingredient betamethasone is often too strong for sensitive skin. Fucidin H Cream is considered a more appropriate treatment for facial skin conditions associated with eczema or psoriasis.
Do NOT use Fucibet if you know you are allergic to any of the ingredients.
Fucibet cannot and should not be taken as a remedy for any of the following conditions:
- Acne
- Bacterial infections (which are not related to dermatitis)
- Fungal infections (such as athlete’s foot or thrush)
- Viral infections (such as chickenpox or herpes)
- Rosacea
- Perioral dermatitis (a rash around the mouth or chin)
- Any other skin infections not related to eczema or dermatitis (including nappy rash and impetigo)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
It is generally not advised to use Fucibet during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. In this case, it would need to be prescribed by a GP.
Fucibet can be used safely by breastfeeding mothers, providing the cream is not applied directly to the breast.
Fucibet and other medications
As Fucibet is well-tolerated, it will not interact with most other medications. That said, you should not use Fucibet if you are also using any of the following treatments:
- Creams containing fusidic acid
- Steroid treatments such as Betamethasone, Clobetasone, or Hydrocortisone
- Cholestyramine
- BCG vaccine
Fucibet Cream Ingredients
The active ingredients in Fucibet are Fusidic acid 2%, betamethasone valerate 0.1%.
Fucibet also contains macrogol cetostearyl ether, cetostearyl alcohol, chlorocresol, liquid paraffin, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, white soft paraffin, all-rac-a-tocopherols, purified water, sodium hydroxide.