What is Fucidin Cream used for?
Fucidin is a topical treatment used to alleviate the symptoms of eczema, dermatitis, and other skin conditions that are also accompanied by infections. As it contains an antibiotic (called fusidic acid), Fucidin Cream is very effective at treating a range of bacterial infections, including:
- Infected eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis
- Impetigo (a skin infection that mainly affects infants and children)
- Infected hair follicles
- Infected wounds
How does Fucidin Cream work?
The active ingredient in Fucidin Cream is an antibiotic called fusidic acid, which works by stemming the growth of bacteria that can lead to infections. By preventing the bacteria from generating the proteins they need in order to grow, fusidic acid prevents infection from taking hold. This allows the immune system to step in and kill off any remaining bacteria.
Fucidin Cream alternatives
There are many treatments available for skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis, ranging from moisturising emollients to steroid treatments specifically aimed at fighting flare-ups.
Moisturising emollient creams are often effective at alleviating the symptoms of eczema and other mild skin conditions. Emollient creams include:
- Balneum Cream
- Dermol Cream
- E45 Cream
- Doublebase Gel
For more persistent or severe symptoms of eczema or dermatitis, a steroid treatment might be prescribed. Steroid treatments include:
- Fucidin H Cream (a version of Fucidin Cream which contains hydrocortisone)
- Eumovate Ointment
- Hydrocortisone Cream
- Betnovate Cream or Ointment (which contains a stronger formulation)
If your scalp is affected by eczema or dermatitis, scalp treatments such as Betacap Solution or a medicated shampoo like Alphosyl Shampoo can be applied to reduce dryness, itchiness and inflammation.
In addition to prescription and over-the-counter treatments, there are several self-help techniques that can help to reduce the symptoms of eczema or dermatitis and prevent infection. Self-help measures include:
- Keeping the skin moisturised
- Using mild, fragrance-free soaps and shower gels
- Avoiding the use of skin products containing known irritants
- Avoiding extreme temperatures (e.g. very hot showers)
- Wearing cotton gloves to keep from scratching the affected area
Antihistamine tablets such as Cetitizine or Loratadine can also be taken, as this may help to ease the itching and inflammation often associated with eczema and dermatitis.
Directions
How do I use Fucidin Cream?
To apply Fucidin Cream, simply follow the steps below up to 3 or 4 times each day:
- Thoroughly wash your hands using soap and warm water
- Apply a thin layer of Fucidin Cream to the affected area(s)
- If using it on your face, take care to avoid getting the cream in your eyes (if this happens, simply wash it out with cold water)
- Thoroughly wash your hands again after application (unless the hands are the affected area)
Following these steps, you should see your symptoms start to improve within a few days. If there’s no improvement after 7 days of using Fucidin, you should speak to your GP to discuss alternative treatments.
Who is Fucidin Cream suitable for?
Fucidin is generally safe for most people to use, including children, but you should consult your doctor if you’re unsure. It can be used safely during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but again it’s best to check with your doctor first.
Fucidin Cream side effects
While Fucidin is generally a safe and effective treatment, a very small number of users may experience side effects after applying Fucidin.
The most common side effects of Fucidin are:
- Skin irritation, stinging, or a burning sensation
- Skin redness
- A skin rash
These side effects will typically be mild and are found to affect only 1 in every 100 people. If you’re concerned about any side effects you might be experiencing after using Fucidin (or you experience any more severe side effects not listed above) speak to your doctor or pharmacist straight away.
Fucidin Cream warnings
You should not take Fucidin if you know you are allergic to any of its ingredients. If you experience an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical assistance.
If you experience any of the following symptoms after using Fucidin Cream, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- A severe skin rash
- Swelling in the face or throat
- Breathing difficulties
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Expectant mothers are advised to consult a GP before using Fucidin. It can be used safely while breastfeeding, providing the cream is not applied directly to the breast.
Fucidin and other medications
It is generally safe to use Fucidin alongside other treatments and medications you might be taking, but you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Fucidin if you’re unsure.
Fucidin Cream Ingredients
The active ingredient in Fucidin is fusidic acid (2%). Fucidin also contains the following inactive ingredients: butylhydroxyanisole (E320), cetyl alcohol, glycerol, liquid paraffin, polysorbate 60, potassium sorbate, purified water, all-rac-α-tocopherol, hydrochloric acid, white soft paraffin.