Sign in to your account
or
By signing in you agree to our
Terms & conditions
 and 
Privacy policy

Fusidic Acid

Written By Dr. Anuj SainiReviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma
Last updated 28 Mar 2025 | 04:50 AM (UTC)

Fusidic Acid Uses

Fusidic Acid is used in the treatment of bacterial skin infections and bacterial eye infections.

How Fusidic Acid works

Fusidic Acid is an antibiotic. It works by preventing synthesis of essential proteins required by bacteria to carry out vital functions. Thus, it stops the bacteria from growing, and prevents the infection from spreading.

Common side effects of Fusidic Acid

Irritation
Authenticity

Want to Know More

Read Our Editorial Policy

Expert advice for Fusidic Acid

  • Fusidic Acid treats bacterial skin infections such as impetigo and infected dermatitis.
  • Don't use it for more often or for longer than advised by your doctor.
  • Apply it gently to the infected area of skin three to four times a day.
  • Avoid contact with your eyes, nose or mouth. Rinse off with water if you accidentally get the cream in these areas.
  • Don't cover the area being treated with airtight dressings such as bandages unless directed by a doctor, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
  • Inform your doctor if your infection becomes worse during treatment or if it comes back after you have stopped treatment with Fusidic Acid.

Frequently asked questions for Fusidic Acid

Fusidic Acid is neither an antifungal nor a steroid. It is an antibiotic that is effective against bacteria. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin like impetigo (a weeping, crusty and swollen patch of skin), infected cuts and grazes, and infected dermatitis (skin becomes red, slightly swollen, and painful due to infection).
Use the Fusidic Acid for the time advised by your doctor. The treatment with Fusidic Acid usually stretches for 1-2 weeks although it can be longer in some cases.
Fusidic Acid is meant to be applied only on the skin. Always wash your hands before applying the medicine. Unless you are using the cream to treat your hands, always wash your hands after using Fusidic Acid. Do not insert it into your body or swallow it. If it accidentally enters your eyes, wash your eyes thoroughly with water. If irritation persists, contact your doctor immediately.
Sometimes the bacteria get modified in your body and the medicine stops working. This is called drug resistance. Extended or recurrent use of medicine may increase the risk of developing resistance to that medicine. Your body may develop resistance for Fusidic Acid too. Therefore, to prevent drug resistance, you should use Fusidic Acid in the right amount and for the duration recommended by the doctor.
If you develop a severe allergic reaction after using Fusidic Acid, wash the area thoroughly and do not use the medicine again. The symptoms of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, difficulty in breathing, stinging or burning in the eye which does not go away, and swelling of the face (especially around the eyes or eyelids). You should immediately seek the medical support of your doctor or go to a nearby hospital.