Fusidic acid belongs to a class of medications known as antibiotics.

Uses

It is used to treat various skin infections caused by certain kinds of bacteria. Such infections may include impetigo and secondary infections (infections that develop after the skin has been injured) to burns or broken skin.

Precautions and Warnings

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Organism overgrowth: The use of antibiotics applied to the skin occasionally allows organisms that are not killed by the antibiotic to grow to large numbers (overgrowth). If the infection does not improve within a few days or seems to get worse at any time, contact your doctor. Do not use this medication for longer than 14 days.

Severe skin infections, or infections that do not appear to heal with the use of a topical (skin-applied) medication, should be treated with a systemic (oral or injectable) antibiotic in addition to or instead of a topical medication.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: This medication may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are using fusidic acid, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Side Effects

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• allergic reaction at the site of application, including redness, hives, swelling, rash, and/or itching
  
• mild irritation at area of application
• pain (only when medication is applied to deep leg ulcers)
• skin blistering
• symptoms of an eye infection (e.g., pink or red eyes, itchy eyes, eye discharge, crusts on the eyelids or lashes)

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, or swelling of the face and throat)
  

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Disclaimer: Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.