Sodium Fusidate (Fusidic Acid): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects | MedexInfo

Sodium Fusidate (Fusidic Acid)

Rx

Generic NameSodium Fusidate

Therapeutic ClassAntibiotic (Protein Synthesis Inhibitor)

Common Strength2% cream/ointment, 1% eye drops, 250 mg oral tablets

PregnancyTopical preferred; oral only if necessary

Indications ▼

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: Treatment of impetigo, infected wounds, boils, and infected burns caused by Staphylococcus aureus.

Ophthalmic Infections: Treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis (eye drops formulation).

Other: Occasionally used systemically for staphylococcal infections resistant to other antibiotics.

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with elongation factor G (EF-G) on the ribosome, leading to bacteriostatic activity against susceptible Gram-positive bacteria.

Pharmacokinetics: Topical application leads to minimal systemic absorption. Oral absorption is moderate; metabolized in the liver and excreted mainly in bile. Half-life approximately 3–5 hours.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Indication	Dose	Frequency
Topical skin infections	Apply thin layer	2–3 times daily
Ophthalmic infections	1–2 drops per affected eye	2–4 times daily
Oral systemic infections	250–500 mg	Every 8–12 hours (physician guidance)

Note: Complete full course even if symptoms improve. Avoid occlusive dressings unless directed by physician.

Side Effects ▼

Local irritation, itching, or redness (topical)

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (oral)

Rare: liver enzyme elevation, hypersensitivity reactions

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to fusidic acid or any excipients

Severe hepatic impairment (caution with oral use)

Drug Interaction ▼

May interact with systemic antibiotics; check for additive toxicity

Caution with statins (rare cases of myopathy reported with oral fusidic acid)

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Topical use preferred; oral use only if clearly needed

Consult physician before use during breastfeeding

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: Effective against Gram-positive bacterial skin infections, especially staphylococcal strains.

Advantage: Minimal systemic absorption for topical use, convenient dosing.

Limitation: Resistance may develop; avoid prolonged monotherapy orally.

Monitoring: Observe for local irritation, liver function in oral therapy, signs of hypersensitivity.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Apply topically as directed; avoid eyes unless prescribed

Complete full course of treatment

Report signs of allergic reaction or persistent infection

For oral use, follow dosing instructions carefully and monitor for GI side effects

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 25°C

Protect from light and moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Facid 250 mg Tablet Fucimax 250 mg Tablet Fucidin 250 mg Tablet Facid 2% Cream Facid 2% Ointment Fusidate 2% Ointment Fucidin 2% Cream Fusate 2% Cream Fusimed 2% Ointment

Global:

Fucidin®

Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Antibiotics • Condition: Skin Infections