Fusidic Acid 2% Cream is a topical antibiotic used to treat mild to moderate bacterial skin infections, especially those caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. It works by stopping bacteria from multiplying, allowing the body to clear the infection more effectively. It is commonly used for impetigo, infected eczema and small infected wounds.

Fusidic acid is effective for conditions such as impetigo, infected eczema, folliculitis and small infected cuts or abrasions. It is generally suitable when symptoms are localised and mild. Larger, spreading or painful infections may require oral antibiotics instead.

Apply a thin layer to the affected skin three to four times daily unless advised otherwise. Wash hands before and after use and avoid covering the area with tight dressings unless instructed. Treatment usually lasts 5-7 days. Stopping early may allow the infection to return. 

Many people notice improvement within 1–2 days, with redness, soreness and crusting gradually settling. Full recovery often takes around a week. If the infection worsens, spreads or fails to improve after seven days, you should seek medical advice.

Yes. Fusidic acid is commonly prescribed for infected eczema, especially when golden crusts or weeping develop. It treats the bacterial component while emollients continue to support the skin barrier. If significant inflammation is present, your clinician may recommend a combination antibiotic–steroid cream instead.

Most people tolerate fusidic acid well. Possible side effects include mild stinging, redness, itching or temporary irritation at the application site. Severe reactions such as swelling or blistering are uncommon. If irritation persists or spreads, stop using the cream and seek advice.

Yes, but with care. Fusidic acid can be used on facial infections such as impetigo or infected eczema when prescribed. Avoid the eyes and lips unless specifically directed. If you need treatment for eyelid or lip infections, your clinician may suggest alternatives like mupirocin.

Fusidic acid alone treats the infection, but if inflammation, itching or eczema flare-ups are severe, a combination antibiotic–steroid cream such as Fucidin H or Fucibet may be more suitable. These reduce both infection and irritation in one treatment.

No. Fusidic acid only treats bacterial infections and does not work on fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot, ringworm or yeast rashes. Using it incorrectly may delay proper treatment. Fungal infections respond better to creams like clotrimazole or terbinafine.

Sometimes, yes. For more severe or spreading infections, clinicians may use fusidic acid cream alongside oral antibiotics to target surface bacteria while systemic treatment works deeper. This approach is usually reserved for worsening or persistent infections.

Fusidic acid is generally considered safe when used on small areas for short periods, but you should always check with a clinician before use. Avoid applying to the breast area while breastfeeding unless advised, as the medicine could transfer to your baby.

Boils and abscesses often need drainage rather than topical antibiotics alone. Fusidic acid may help surrounding skin if infected, but it cannot penetrate deeply enough to treat the core of an abscess. If you suspect a boil, seek medical review.

Fusidic acid is not usually recommended for nasal use for infection control. If nasal carriage of Staphylococcus is suspected, mupirocin ointment is typically preferred as it is licensed for intranasal treatment.

If symptoms are worsening, spreading, or not improving within seven days, the infection may be resistant, fungal, viral or deeper than topical antibiotics can reach. A clinician may switch you to mupirocin, a combination cream or oral antibiotics.

No. Long-term use increases the risk of bacterial resistance, meaning the cream may stop working when you really need it. Courses should generally last no longer than 7–10 days. If infections keep returning, a clinician should assess the underlying cause.