Treat Impetigo With Fusidic Acid
Learn how Fusidic Acid treats Impetigo, how to use it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results to expect. When clinically appropriate, our trained clinicians can assess your symptoms online and provide treatment without needing a GP appointment.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Fusidic Acid Key Facts
Who Manufactures Fusidic Acid?
Fusidic Acid is manufactured by various MHRA approved generic manufacturers.
What Form is Fusidic Acid available in?
Fusidic Acid is available as a 20mg/g (2%) cream.
How do I store Fusidic Acid?
Store Fusidic Acid at room temperature below 25° C, away from excess moisture and heat.
What is Fusidic Acid used for?
Fusidic Acid is used for the treatment of of localised non-bullous impetigo under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.
How does Fusidic Acid work?
Fusidic Acid is an antibiotic that stops bacteria sensitive to Fusidic Acid from growing and spreading.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
You should see an improvement in your skin after a few days. Speak to your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen rapidly or significantly at any time.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Fusidic Acid?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using Fusidic Acid cream.
Do I need to take Fusidic Acid with food?
You do not need to take Fusidic Acid with food. You can eat or drink as normal when using Fusidic Acid cream.
Who can and cannot take Fusidic Acid?
You may use Fusidic Acid if you meet the inclusion criteria for impetigo for the Pharmacy First service, but may not use Fusidic Acid if you meet the exclusion criteria for impetigo for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Fusidic Acid?
Adults and children 1 year and over should apply a thin layer of Fusidic Acid cream to the affected area(s) three times daily for 5 days.
What are the side effects of Fusidic Acid?
Side effects of Fusidic Acid are not common, but may include skin reactions, such as dermatitis, rash, pruritus, erythema, and pain or irritation at the application site.
Are there any Interactions of Fusidic Acid with other drugs?
There are no known problems if you take other medicines, herbal remedies or supplements, at the same time as Fusidic Acid.
Other important information about Fusidic Acid
You should not smoke or go near naked flames while using fusidic cream due to the risk of severe burns. Also, wash any clothing or bedding that has been in contact with Fusidic Acid to reduce the risk of fire hazards. Avoid contact with eyes and apply Fusidic Acid at regular intervals. Seek medical advice in the event of an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.
Does Fusidic Acid interfere with conception and contraception?
Fusidic Acid does not affect fertility in men or women and does not stop any type of contraception from working.
Can I use Fusidic Acid when breast feeding?
It's OK to use Fusidic Acid cream while you're breastfeeding, unless you have impetigo lesion(s) on the breast(s). If you are breastfeeding avoid direct contact between infant and impetigo lesion(s), and wash your hands after applying Fusidic Acid 2% cream and before touching the infant.
Can I use Fusidic Acid if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
It's safe to use Fusidic Acid cream while you're pregnant, unless you are under 16 years of age, in which case you will be excluded from the service.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About How Fusidic Acid Treats Impetigo
What is Fusidic Acid and how is it used for impetigo?
Fusidic acid is a topical antibiotic available as a 2% cream or ointment, used to treat localised, non-bullous impetigo. It is one of the first-line topical treatments for impetigo alongside hydrogen peroxide 1% cream. Fusidic acid works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and is effective against Staphylococcus aureus, the most common cause of impetigo. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, a pharmacist can supply fusidic acid cream for impetigo without a GP appointment.
How do I use Fusidic Acid cream for impetigo?
Apply fusidic acid 2% cream or ointment to the affected area three times daily for 5–7 days. Gently clean the affected skin with soap and water and pat dry before each application. Apply a thin layer to the impetigo lesions and a small margin of surrounding skin. Wash your hands before and after application. Do not use fusidic acid for longer than 7 days without medical review, as prolonged use increases the risk of bacterial resistance developing.
When is topical Fusidic Acid appropriate for impetigo?
Topical fusidic acid is appropriate for localised, non-bullous impetigo — meaning the infection is limited to a small area (typically fewer than 3 lesions in one area) and the sores are not fluid-filled blisters (bullous impetigo). If the impetigo is widespread, bullous, not responding to topical treatment after 2–3 days, or if the patient is systemically unwell, oral antibiotics (such as flucloxacillin or clarithromycin) are needed instead.
Can I get Fusidic Acid through Pharmacy First?
Yes, pharmacists can supply fusidic acid cream through the NHS Pharmacy First service for localised impetigo. The pharmacist will assess the skin condition, confirm the diagnosis, and determine whether topical or oral treatment is most appropriate. Fusidic acid cream is a common first-line choice for mild, localised cases. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of topical Fusidic Acid?
Side effects of topical fusidic acid are generally mild and localised. Common effects include mild stinging, burning, or irritation at the application site. Allergic contact dermatitis (redness, itching, swelling) is uncommon. Serious systemic side effects are very rare with topical use. If significant irritation or an allergic reaction develops, stop the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP.
Why should Fusidic Acid not be used for longer than 7 days?
Prolonged or repeated use of fusidic acid increases the risk of developing fusidic acid-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Resistance to fusidic acid is an increasing concern in the UK. Limiting treatment to 5–7 days and reserving topical antibiotics for cases where they are genuinely needed helps preserve the effectiveness of this important antibiotic. If the impetigo has not cleared after 7 days, return for review rather than continuing the cream.
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