Fucidin H Cream

What is Fucidin H Cream?

Fucidin H works by first preventing infection and then reducing swelling and irritation. It combines an antibiotic (fusidic acid) and a steroid (hydrocortisone) to accomplish both of these goals in a single application. The affected skin can begin to heal once the infections have been treated and the inflammation has been reduced.

How does the cream work?

Fucidin H was created to improve skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. The cream uses two active ingredients, each with a different function. The first is fusidic acid, an antibiotic that prevents infections from growing. The second is hydrocortisone, an anti-inflammatory that effectively brings down swelling. By attacking the problem in two ways, Fucidin H works quickly to clear up the infected skin and eliminate your discomfort so you can get back to full health as soon as possible.

What does Fucidin H Cream treat? 

Fucidin H Cream is an effective treatment for the following skin conditions:

• Eczema
• Dermatitis 
• Psoriasis

It should not be used on areas of skin that are infected and with regular use you should see an improvement.

Directions

How do you apply Fucidin H Cream?

Fucidin H Cream is a daily treatment that aims to improve the condition of skin infections, inflammation and irritation. Always follow the directions instructed in the Patient Information Leaflet or set out by your GP.

• Wash your hands before application to avoid spreading the infection.
• Spread a thin layer of cream onto the inflamed skin before gently rubbing it in. 
• The usual amount of cream needed is usually measured in fingers tips and will vary between different areas of the body. If you are using the cream on a child still use an adult finger to measure out the fingertip unit.
• Apply twice a day with at least 12 hours between applications.
• Wash your hands after, unless your hands require treatment.

You should see an improvement within the first few days of use.

How long does it take to work?

How quickly you will see an improvement in your skin depends on the skin condition and severity of your symptoms. However, the active ingredients in Fucidin H Cream can work very quickly and you may notice improvement within the first few days of using the treatment. 

It’s recommended that patients who do not see an improvement after 1 week should stop using the cream and seek further advice from their GP. Using the cream for too long may cause bacteria resistance, making Fucidin H less effective in the future.

Side Effects

What are the possible side effects?

Some Fucidin H ingredients (butyl hydroxy anisole, cetyl alcohol, and potassium sorbate) are known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Before thoroughly applying the cream, test it on a small patch of skin to see how you react.

Common side effects include:

• In the treated area, an itchy rash and skin inflammation
• Eczema deterioration or another skin rash
• Itching or burning sensation in the affected area
• Dry skin

If you do experience side effects when using Fucidin H Cream you should stop using the cream and seek professional medical advice. In cases where severe symptoms are present such as difficulty breathing, call 999 or visit your local A&E department. 

Warnings 

Can you use Fucidin H Cream while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Fucidin H Cream is safe for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, you must not use your medicine for a long time or in large amounts so it’s important to consult with your doctor before use.

Can children use the product?

Yes, Fucidin H Cream can be used by babies aged 3 months and above. The amount of cream needed for a child may be less than an adult so always follow your GP’s instructions. 

Can other treatments be used alongside the cream?

As long as they don’t contain steroids or antibiotics, yes. Standard emollients will help keep your skin hydrated and prevent further irritation from drying and cracking.

Who shouldn’t the cream be used?

Fucidin H is a great treatment for many individuals with skin complaints but in some cases, an alternative cream is more appropriate for your needs. You should not use Fucidin H in any of the following scenarios:

• You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed.
• You are attempting to treat rosacea (a condition causing redness of the face and cheeks)
• You have widespread skin infections.
• You have acne.
• You’re attempting to treat non-infected eczema or dermatitis.
• Viral infections (e.g. cold sores, herpes, chicken pox)
• Bacterial infections which are unrelated to dermatitis
• Fungal infections (e.g. thrush, athlete’s foot)
• You have open wounds of broken veins.

Conditions such as acne and rosacea need special treatments, and this cream will not prove an effective remedy. It’s best to speak to your doctor for advice on the correct treatment.