How To Use Fusidic Acid
Complete Step-by-Step Usage Guide, Dosage Instructions & Safety Information
Key Takeaways: Using Fusidic Acid Safely
- Apply 3-4 times daily: Usually three or four times a day, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Wash hands before and after: Prevents spreading infection and contaminating the tube.
- Use for 1-2 weeks: Complete the full course even if skin looks better.
- Avoid eyes and mouth: If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with cold water.
- Do not share your cream: This can spread bacteria and cause resistance.
- Discard after 4 weeks: Once opened, throw away any remaining cream after 28 days.
Fusidic acid cream is a topical antibiotic used to treat bacterial skin infections like impetigo and folliculitis. Using it correctly ensures the infection clears quickly and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Important Medical Advice
If you accidentally swallow fusidic acid cream, contact a doctor immediately – especially if an infant has swallowed it. If you experience severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, difficulty breathing), stop use and seek urgent medical help.
How to Take Fusidic Acid: Step-by-Step Usage Guide
Follow these simple steps each time you apply fusidic acid cream to ensure it works effectively.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the tube.
- Remove the cap and check the tube seal. If it's the first use, use the spike in the cap to pierce the seal.
- Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip – about the size of a pea is usually enough for an area the size of your palm.
- Apply gently to the infected skin and rub in until the cream disappears. Avoid getting it in your eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.
- Wash your hands again after applying, unless you are treating your hands (in that case, wash only the uninfected hand).
- Replace the cap tightly to keep the cream fresh.
🗒️ Pro tip: If you need to cover the area with a dressing or plaster, ask your doctor first. Occlusion (covering) may increase absorption and is not usually needed.
Dosage Guide for Fusidic Acid
The amount and frequency depend on the type and severity of your skin infection. Always follow your doctor's prescription.
| Age Group | Typical Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults and children | A small amount (pea-sized) covering the affected area | 3 to 4 times daily | Usually 1–2 weeks |
| Infants (with nappy area) | As prescribed – nappy may act as a dressing, so follow doctor's advice | As directed | As directed |
What if you miss a dose?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.
What if you use too much?
Accidentally applying too much cream is unlikely to harm you. If you or a child swallows any, contact your doctor or NHS 111 for advice.
Who Should Use Fusidic Acid
Fusidic acid cream is suitable for most adults and children with bacterial skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
- People with impetigo – a contagious, crusty skin infection.
- Those with folliculitis – inflamed hair follicles, often looking like small pimples.
- Patients with infected eczema or dermatitis – when bacteria have infected broken skin.
- Individuals with paronychia – infection around a fingernail or toenail.
- People with erythrasma – brown, scaly patches in skin folds caused by bacteria.
Your doctor will decide if fusidic acid is right for you based on the type of infection and your medical history.
Who Should NOT Use Fusidic Acid
A small number of people should avoid this medicine or use it only under close medical supervision.
- Anyone allergic to fusidic acid or any of the other ingredients (listed in the PIL).
- People with known cross-allergy to other antibiotics – though rare, inform your doctor.
- If you have a fungal or viral skin infection (e.g., cold sores, chickenpox, ringworm) – antibiotics won't work and may worsen it.
- On large areas of broken skin – systemic absorption could increase; doctor will assess.
If you are unsure whether you can use fusidic acid, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
Should Fusidic Acid Be Taken with Food or Without Food?
Fusidic acid cream is applied to the skin, so food does not affect how it works. There are no dietary restrictions while using the cream.
However, if you are taking oral fusidic acid tablets (rare, for serious infections), those should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset. But for the cream – just apply as directed, no need to think about meals.
🗒️ Note: Always wash your hands before eating to avoid transferring cream from your fingers to your mouth.
Special Conditions: Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy
Fusidic acid cream can be used during pregnancy. When applied to the skin, only tiny amounts are absorbed into the body, so it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. However, always tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Breastfeeding
It is safe to use fusidic acid cream while breastfeeding, but avoid applying it directly to the breast to prevent the baby from ingesting the cream. If you need treatment on the breast, wash it off thoroughly before feeding.
Children and elderly
The cream can be used in children and the elderly at the same dose as adults. For babies, a nappy may act as an occlusive dressing – follow your doctor's advice carefully.
Always consult your doctor or midwife before using any medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Fusidic Acid Usage FAQs
Can I use fusidic acid cream on my face?
Yes, but be very careful to avoid the eyes, nostrils, and mouth. If it gets into your eyes, rinse immediately with cold water.
How long does it take for fusidic acid cream to work?
You should see improvement within 2–3 days. If there is no change after 7 days, see your doctor – the infection may need a different treatment.
Can I stop using fusidic acid once the infection looks better?
No, always complete the full course (usually 1–2 weeks). Stopping early can allow bacteria to regrow and become resistant.
What should I do if I forget to apply a dose?
Apply it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual. Do not apply extra.
Can I use fusidic acid cream with other creams or makeup?
Avoid applying other products on the same area unless your doctor says it's safe. If using moisturiser, apply fusidic acid first and wait 10–15 minutes.
Need Fusidic Acid for a Skin Infection?
If you have a bacterial skin infection and need treatment, speak with a UK-registered doctor through a confidential online consultation.
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Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Feroz is a GMC-registered doctor and a medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He oversees acute condition and urgent care guidance.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 21 February 2026
Next Review: 21 August 2026
Published on: 21 February 2026
Last Updated: 21 February 2026