Fucidin Cream FAQs
What is Fucidin Cream?
Fucidin cream is a prescription-only medication used to treat bacterial skin infections, including infected eczema, dermatitis, and other skin conditions. It’s a topical treatment, applied directly to the skin to reduce symptoms and prevent the infection from worsening. The active ingredient, fusidic acid, is an antibiotic that targets the bacteria causing the infection. Fucidin cream requires a prescription in the UK, so you'll need a consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. It is safe for most adults, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What Does Fucidin Cream Do?
Fucidin cream contains fusidic acid, an antibiotic that stops the growth and reproduction of bacteria. It works by blocking the bacteria from producing proteins necessary for their replication, halting the infection’s spread. As the bacteria are unable to multiply, they die, allowing your immune system to clear the infection. This makes Fucidin cream effective for treating bacterial skin infections such as infected eczema and dermatitis.
What Are the Alternatives to Fucidin Cream?
If Fucidin cream is not suitable for you, there are other treatments available:
- Fucidin H Cream: Contains fusidic acid along with a mild steroid (hydrocortisone) to reduce inflammation, used when both infection and irritation are present.
- Fucibet Cream: Combines fusidic acid with a stronger steroid (betamethasone) to treat more severe inflammation along with infection.
For eczema and similar conditions, non-prescription alternatives include moisturizers, emollients, bath and shower gels, and antihistamine tablets to relieve itching. These can help prevent infections. If your skin becomes infected, consult a healthcare professional for proper treatment.
How to Use Fucidin Cream?
To use Fucidin cream, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area.
- Avoid contact with your eyes; if the cream gets in your eyes, rinse immediately with cold water.
- Wash your hands after each use, unless treating your hands.
- Typically, apply the cream 3-4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. If the affected area is covered with a dressing, you may need to apply it less often.
Continue using Fucidin cream for the full prescribed duration to ensure the infection doesn’t return. If you don’t see improvement within a few days, consult your doctor.
What Are the Ingredients in Fucidin Cream?
The active ingredient in Fucidin cream is:
Other ingredients include:
- Butylhydroxyanisole (E320)
- Cetyl Alcohol
- Glycerol
- Liquid Paraffin
- Polysorbate 60
- Potassium Sorbate
- Purified Water
- All-rac-?-tocopherol
- Hydrochloric Acid
- White Soft Paraffin
Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before use and tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.
What Are the Side Effects of Fucidin Cream?
While Fucidin cream is generally safe, it may cause side effects, including:
- Irritation at the application site (pain, burning, stinging, redness)
- Itching
- Rash
- Eczema
These side effects are uncommon, affecting up to 1 in 100 people. If you experience any side effects or if the cream causes any discomfort, stop using it and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What Are the Warnings for Fucidin Cream?
Fucidin cream is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. If you plan to apply it to large areas of skin or near your eyes, consult your doctor, as this could increase the risk of side effects. Some ingredients in Fucidin cream may cause skin irritation. If you experience a severe skin rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing after using the cream, seek medical attention immediately.
Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before starting a new medication and inform your doctor of any other medicines you are taking.
You can buy Fucidin cream online from courierpharmacy.co.uk after completing the online consultation form.
