fusidic acid

General

Canada-Approved Medicine

This monograph describes a medication approved for use in Canada by the Therapeutic Products Directorate, a division of Health Canada’s Health Products and Food Branch. The medication is not approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration; however, a similar formulation carrying a different generic or brand name might be available in the US.

Pronunciation:
fyoo-sid-ik as-id

Trade Name(s)

  • Fucidin Canadian Trade name
  • Fucithalmic Canadian Trade name

Ther. Class.

anti-infectives

Indications

  • Topical Local treatment of primary and secondary bacterial skin infections including impetigo contagiosa, erythrasma and secondary skin infections such as infected wounds/burns.
  • Ophth:  Treatment of superficial eye infections.

Action

Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis.

Therapeutic Effect(s):

  • Resolution of localized bacterial infections.
  • Not active against Gram-negative organisms; active against Staphylococci, Streptococci, and Corynebacterium.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Unknown.

Distribution: Systemically absorbed drug crosses the placenta and enters breast milk.

Metabolism and Excretion: Absorbed drug is extensively metabolized.

Half-life: 5–6 hr.

TIME/ACTION PROFILE

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
Topunknownunknown6–8 hr
Ophthunknownunknown12 hr

Contraindication/Precautions

Contraindicated in:

  • Hypersensitivity to fusidic acid or other components of the formulation (topical ointment contains lanolin).

Use Cautiously in:

  • OB:  Potential benefits should be weighed against the possible hazards to the fetus (crosses the placenta);
  • Lactation: Safe use during breastfeeding has not been established (enters breast milk).

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Derm: mild local irritation

* CAPITALS indicate life-threatening.
Underline indicate most frequent.

Interactions

Drug-Drug

None noted.

Route/Dosage

Topical (Adults and Children): Apply to affected area 3–4 times daily.

Ophth:  (Adults and Children): One drop into conjunctival sac of both eyes every 12 hr for 7 days.

Availability

Topical cream: 2% (20 mg/g)

Topical ointment (contains lanolin): 2% (20 mg/g)

Ophthalmic viscous drops (microcrystalline suspension): 1%

In Combination with: hydrocortisone (Fucidin H)

Assessment

  • Inspect involved areas of skin and mucous membranes before and frequently during therapy. Increased skin irritation may indicate need to discontinue medication.

Implementation

  • Do not confuse topical product with ophthalmic product.
  • Topical Consult health care professional for proper cleansing technique before applying medication. Apply small amount to cover affected area completely. Avoid the use of occlusive wrappings or dressings unless directed by health care professional.
  • Ophth:  Administer 1 drop into conjunctival sac of both eyes every 12 hr for 7 days. See medication administration techniques for instructions.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Instruct patient to apply medication as directed for full course of therapy, even if feeling better. Emphasize the importance of avoiding the eyes.
  • Advise patient to report increased skin irritation or lack of response to therapy to health care professional.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Resolution of skin or eye infection.