Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate
About Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is a prescription topical treatment used to treat skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis when a bacterial infection is also present. It works by targeting both the underlying skin inflammation and the harmful bacteria causing the infection. This medicine helps soothe irritated skin while actively clearing the bacterial overgrowth.
For best results, you must apply this medication consistently at the same times each day as directed by your healthcare provider. Since this is a topical cream, it is applied directly to the skin and is unaffected by food or drink. To support your skin's healing process, it is helpful to keep the skin well-hydrated with plain, fragrance-free moisturisers and avoid harsh soaps.
While using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate, you may notice mild, temporary skin irritation or a slight burning sensation where the cream was applied. These minor reactions typically fade as your skin adjusts to the treatment, but you should contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe skin peeling, painful blistering, or signs of a widespread allergic reaction.
Before applying this medication, inform your doctor if you have viral skin infections like cold sores, fungal skin conditions like athlete's foot, or skin thinning. People with tuberculosis of the skin or untreated skin infections should not use this medication.
Although topical treatments have a low risk of interacting with oral medicines, tell your healthcare provider about all skin products you currently use. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or caring for an elderly patient, consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure this treatment is safe for your specific situation.
Uses of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate
Medicinal Benefits
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate helps treat bacterial skin infections while reducing inflammation, redness, itching, and discomfort to support faster skin healing.
- Reduces swelling and redness: The anti-inflammatory action quickly calms irritated, inflamed skin, making you feel more comfortable.
- Relieves intense itching: By soothing the skin, it decreases the urge to scratch, which prevents further skin damage and secondary infections.
- Clears bacterial infections: The antibacterial action stops bacteria from multiplying, allowing the skin to heal much faster.
Directions for Use
- Follow your doctor's guidance regarding the dosage and timing for optimal results.
- Take a small amount of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate and gently apply as a thin layer on the affected area of the skin as prescribed by your doctor.
- Wash your hands before and after applying Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate, unless the treated area is your hands.
- If you are using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate on your face, avoid contact with your eyes as it may cause irritation. In case Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate comes into contact with the eyes accidentally, rinse it with water thoroughly. If you still have a problem with your eye or notice any vision problems, consult your doctor immediately.
Storage
Side Effects of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate
Common Side Effects (Usually mild)
- Mild burning or stinging at the application site
- Skin irritation or redness
- Dryness of the treated skin
Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor right away)
- Severe skin peeling or blistering
- Signs of skin thinning (atrophy) or stretch marks
- Worsening of the skin infection
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Apply Only to Intact Skin: Do not apply Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate to open wounds, deep cuts, or severely damaged skin unless directed by your doctor.
- Avoid Contact with Eyes and Mouth: Prevent the cream from coming into contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Use Only as Directed: Do not apply the medicine to large areas of the body or use it on the face for prolonged periods unless specifically advised by your doctor.
- Inspect the Tube Before Use: Do not use the cream if the tube is damaged, punctured, or if the cream appears discoloured, separated, or has an unusual odour.
- Avoid Occlusive Dressings: Do not cover the treated area with airtight or waterproof dressings unless instructed by your doctor, as this may increase steroid absorption and the risk of side effects.
- Breastfeeding: If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying the cream to the breast or nipple area to prevent accidental exposure to your baby. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Inform your doctor if you are using any of the following before applying Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate:
- Other Topical Corticosteroids: Using other steroid-containing creams or ointments on the same area may increase the risk of skin thinning and other corticosteroid-related side effects.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionThe interaction of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate with alcohol is unknown. Please consult a doctor before consuming alcohol while using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate.
Pregnancy
cautionPlease consult a doctor if you are pregnant. Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is given to pregnant women only if the doctor thinks benefits outweigh risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionDo not apply Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate on the breast area. Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is given to breastfeeding mothers only if the doctor thinks benefits are greater than risks.
Driving
safe if prescribedFusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
safe if prescribedIf you have any concerns regarding the use of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate in patients with liver problems, please consult a doctor.
Kidney
safe if prescribedIf you have any concerns regarding the use of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate in patients with kidney problems, please consult a doctor.
Children
cautionFusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate should be used with caution in children if prescribed by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Keep skin moisturised: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, but wait at least 30 minutes after applying Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate so the medication can be fully absorbed.
- Avoid scratching: Keep your fingernails short and clean to prevent damaging your skin or introducing new bacteria if you accidentally scratch.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing: Opt for soft, cotton fabrics to prevent friction and sweating, which can irritate inflamed skin.
- Identify and avoid triggers: Keep track of personal triggers—such as certain soaps, detergents, perfumes, or food allergens—that make your eczema or dermatitis worse.
- Use lukewarm water: Wash the affected areas with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water strips natural oils from your skin and worsens dryness.
Special Advise
Please consult a dermatologist if the symptoms persist or worsen after using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate for a month.
Avoid applying Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate in or near the eye to prevent irritation or serious side effects like cataracts, or glaucoma that could occur with extended use.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Bacterial skin infection: It occurs when bacteria enter the body through the skin. Bacterial skin infections are generally mild and can be treated using topical antibiotics. Few infections need treatment using an oral antibiotic. Symptoms of a skin infection include rashes, blisters, cracked/dry skin, itching, redness, swelling, stinging, or burning sensation.
Atopic dermatitis (eczema): This is a skin condition in which the immune system becomes triggered, thereby causing inflammation, dry skin, itching, and a skin rash that appears purple or grey, or red. Eczema is caused by a change in the gene, which forms filaggrin (protein). This protein gets damaged due to the bacterial infection, damaging the skin barrier and allowing bacteria to cause dry, itchy, and allergic skin.
FAQs
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is used to treat bacterial skin infections and atopic dermatitis.
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate contains Fusidic acid and Hydrocortisone acetate. Fusidic acid works by inhibiting the production of essential proteins necessary for bacteria to grow, multiply and increase in numbers. Hydrocortisone acetate inhibits the release of certain chemical messengers in the body that cause redness, itching and swelling.
Yes, Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate may be used to treat eczema (redness and itching of the skin) and dermatitis (swollen, dry and red skin) caused by bacteria. Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is a combination of corticosteroid and antibiotic that stops the growth of bacteria and decreases redness and swelling.
You are recommended to cover the infected skin with bandages or dressings only if advised by your doctor else it may increase the risk of side effects.
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate should be used with caution in diabetic patients as Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate contains Hydrocortisone acetate (corticosteroid). Generally, steroid medicines may increase blood sugar levels. Therefore, inform your doctor if you have diabetes before using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate so that the dose may be adjusted appropriately.
You are recommended to use Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. However, if the condition persists or worsens after using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate for 1 week, please consult a doctor.
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is not intended to treat pimples. Instead, it's a combination medication containing fusidic acid (an antibiotic) and hydrocortisone acetate (a mild corticosteroid) designed to target bacterial skin infections and atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching. If you're struggling with pimples, it's best to consult with your doctor or dermatologist for appropriate treatment options.
Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is not suitable for treating ringworm, as it's a fungal infection. This medication is specifically designed to target bacterial skin infections and atopic dermatitis (eczema). If you suspect you have ringworm, consult your doctor or dermatologist for appropriate antifungal treatment options.
Special care is needed when using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate in older adults or children. While it's effective for adults with bacterial skin infections or eczema, children require close medical supervision. If your child requires treatment, consult their doctor to determine if Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate is suitable. Older adults should also consult their doctor before using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate, as they may require extra precautions and monitoring to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Common side effects of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate may include itching, irritation, or burning sensation at the site of application. Most of these side effects of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
The safety of Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate in pregnant women has not been fully established. As a precaution, it's essential to consult a doctor before using Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate during pregnancy. Your doctor will assess the potential risks and benefits and provide guidance on alternative treatments if necessary.
You should only apply Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate to your face if your doctor has specifically prescribed it for that area. The skin on your face is thin, and long-term use of steroids can cause skin thinning or other side effects. Talk to your doctor for advice.
If you are pregnant, you should consult your healthcare provider before using this medicine. It is typically only prescribed during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the potential risks, and it should not be used on large areas of skin for long periods. Talk to your doctor.
It is best to avoid applying makeup or other cosmetics over the treated skin area. If you must use cosmetics, wait at least 30 minutes after applying the cream to ensure the medication is fully absorbed. Talk to your doctor.
Children are more sensitive to the side effects of topical steroids. This medicine should only be used on infants or children under strict medical supervision and for the shortest duration possible. Talk to your doctor.
Stopping the treatment too early may cause the bacterial infection to return or the skin inflammation to flare up again. Always finish the exact course of treatment recommended by your healthcare provider. Talk to your doctor.
No, Fusidic Acid+hydrocortisone Acetate contains an antibacterial agent and a steroid, which do not treat fungal infections. Applying it to a fungal infection can actually make the infection worse. Talk to your doctor.
No, this medication is not designed to treat acne. Using topical steroids on acne can worsen breakouts or lead to a specific type of steroid-induced acne. Talk to your doctor.

