Fucidin cream is used to treat conditions where the skin is infected by germs (bacteria), such as:

• Impetigo (a weeping, crusty and swollen patch of skin)
• Infected dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) and spots
• Infected cuts and grazes.

Sodium Fusidate, an antibiotic derived from Fusidium coccineum, exerts powerful activity against a number of gram-positive organisms. Staphylococci, including the strains resistant to penicillin or other antibiotics, are particularly susceptible to Sodium Fusidate. The therapeutic efficacy of topically applied Sodium Fusidate is due partly to the pronounced antibacterial activity of Sodium Fusidate against the organisms responsible for skin infection and partly to the unique ability of this antibiotic to penetrate intact skin.

Fusidic Acid is an anti-microbial agent that acts as an inhibitor of protein synthesis in the microorganism. It interferes with the translocation step by stabilizing the ribosome-guanosine dephosphate elongation factor G-complex. This prevents binding of aminoacyl t-RNA to the ribosome and thereafter stops transfer of additional amino acids to the growing polypeptide.

Usually, you should use this medicine three or four times each day. If you have been told to cover the skin with any dressings or bandages you may not need to use the medicine so often. A nappy on a baby may act as a dressing. Follow the advice of your doctor. This medicine is only for using on your skin or the skin of a child. Do not swallow it. Do not put it inside your body.

If you accidentally apply too much cream or a small quantity of the cream is accidentally swallowed, it is unlikely to cause any harm. If you forget to use this medicine, use it as soon as you remember. Then next use this medicine at the usual time.

Do not use Sodium Fusidate cream if you are allergic to fusidic acid or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

• Irritation at site of application (including pain, burning, irritation, stinging and skin redness)
• Itching
• Rash
• Eczema.

Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)

• Conjunctivitis
• Hives
• Skin swelling
• Blistering of the skin.

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant while using this medicine. You must not use your medicine for a long time or in large amounts.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before using Fucidin cream.

• Take special care if you are going to use this medicine near your eyes or the eyes of a child.
• If you use the cream over a long time or in large amounts it may make the chance of getting any side effects higher. Also your skin may get more sensitive to this medicine.

Do not smoke or go near naked flames-risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings
etc) that has been in contact with Fucidin burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard.
Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.

Topical Antibiotic preparations

Keep away from light and wet place. Keep out of reach of children.