Fusidic Acid

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last updated on 06/07/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Fusidic Acid

CHINESE NAME: 夫西地酸

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Fucithalmic (eye drops), Fucidin (cream/ointment)

DRUG CLASS: Antibiotics

SUB CLASS: Fusidane

USED FOR: Bacterial eye infections, bacterial skin infections

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 10 mg/g (eye drops)
– 50 mg/ml (suspension)
– 2% (cream)
– 2% (ointment)

What is Fusidic Acid for?

Fusidic Acid belongs to a class of medications called fusidane antibiotics. It kills bacteria by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells. Fusidic Acid is mainly used to treat bacterial infections of the eye or skin.

How to use it?

Fusidic Acid is available as eye drops that may be used in the eye, and a cream or ointment that may be applied topically on the skin. Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.

Eye infections
Eye drops: Apply 1 drop into the affected eye every 12 hours for 7 days.

Skin infections
Cream/ointment: Apply onto the affected area 3-4 times daily until there is improvement.

What are the side effects of Fusidic Acid?

Common side effects of Fusidic Acid include eye discomfort and allergic skin reactions.

Who should not take Fusidic Acid?

People allergic to Fusidic Acid or any component of the formulation.

Pharmacist Tips:

– You must complete the entire course of this antibiotic, or else, the infection will not be properly controlled.
– Since Fusidic Acid is indicated for infection, remember to clean your hands before applying the cream or using eye/ear products.
– Applying the medication to the eye may cause blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery.

Common dosing schedule:
Your doctor will advise you on the frequency of application depending on your infection.

Some common medications Fusidic Acid may interact with:
– Penicillins

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Fusidic Acid in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Fusidic Acid is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Fusidic Acid in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.