Fucimax

Indications

Sodium Fusidate is the sodium salt of Fusidic Acid, an antibiotic. As a 2% ointment it is used on the skin to treat bacterial skin infections such as impetigo, infected cuts and wounds, boils, folliculitis and infected eczema, especially those caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Tablets are used for more serious staphylococcal infections of the skin, bone and joints, often together with another antibiotic.

How It Works

Sodium Fusidate stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow, by blocking a factor (elongation factor G) in the bacterial protein-building machinery. This stops the infection from spreading and lets the body clear it.

Dosage and Administration

Ointment: apply a thin layer to the affected skin 2 to 3 times a day, usually for 7 days, or as prescribed. The area may be covered with a dressing. Do not use for longer than 2 weeks at a time, to reduce the risk of resistance. Tablets: dose and duration are as prescribed by your doctor; take them with water, preferably with food. Finish the full course.

Interactions

• Statins (such as Atorvastatin and Simvastatin): with tablets, there is a risk of serious muscle breakdown; statins are usually stopped during treatment and for 7 days after the last dose.
• HIV protease inhibitors such as Ritonavir and Saquinavir: levels of both medicines may rise; avoid together.
• Warfarin: its effect may increase.
• The ointment rarely causes interactions because little is absorbed.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Fusidic Acid, Sodium Fusidate or any ingredient (some ointments contain lanolin or other excipients).
• Tablets: use with statins should be avoided.

Side Effects

Ointment: mild itching, burning, stinging or redness where applied; allergic contact dermatitis is uncommon. Tablets: nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhoea and, less often, changes in liver tests or jaundice (yellow skin or eyes).

Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, a widespread blistering rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or (with tablets and a statin) unexplained muscle pain, weakness or dark brown urine.

Pregnancy and Lactation

The ointment can be used on small areas in pregnancy and breastfeeding if needed; do not apply it to the breasts when breastfeeding. Tablets should be used only if your doctor considers it necessary, especially near delivery, as Fusidic Acid may affect bilirubin in the newborn.

Precautions and Warnings

Overuse of fusidic acid on the skin has led to resistant bacteria, so use it only for as long as needed. Keep the ointment away from the eyes. Tablets can affect the liver; people with liver disease may need blood tests. See a doctor if the infection does not improve in a week or spreads.

Overdose

Overuse of ointment is unlikely to be harmful. Taking too many tablets may cause stomach upset and liver problems; contact a doctor or poison centre.

Therapeutic Class

Antibacterial, fusidane (steroid-structure antibiotic); topical and oral.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Close the tube tightly after use.