What can Fucidin treat? A comprehensive guide

October 8, 2025 •

3 min read

Fucidin, with its active ingredient fusidic acid, has been effectively used for over 40 years to combat a range of bacterial infections. This potent antibiotic can treat various skin and eye infections, but it is critical to understand specifically what can Fucidin treat and what it cannot.

Quick Summary

Fucidin, an antibiotic containing fusidic acid, is used to treat specific bacterial infections, including skin conditions like impetigo, infected dermatitis, and folliculitis, as well as bacterial conjunctivitis in the eye.

Key Points

Treats Bacterial Skin Infections: Fucidin effectively treats various bacterial skin conditions, including impetigo, infected eczema, folliculitis, and cellulitis.
Effective for Bacterial Eye Infections: The eye drop formulation is used for bacterial conjunctivitis, styes, and blepharitis.
Targets Gram-Positive Bacteria: Its primary action is inhibiting the protein synthesis of Gram-positive organisms, most notably Staphylococcus aureus.
Different Formulations: Fucidin is available as a cream, ointment, and eye drops, with combined steroid options like Fucidin H also existing.
Prevents Antibiotic Resistance: To avoid the emergence of resistant bacteria, it is crucial to complete the full treatment course and use the medication only for bacterial infections.
Ineffective Against Viral and Fungal Infections: Fucidin has no effect on viruses (like cold sores) or fungi (like thrush).

Fucidin, known by its active ingredient fusidic acid, is a powerful antibiotic primarily targeting infections caused by susceptible Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus species. Derived from the fungus Fusidium coccineum, it inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, thus preventing growth and multiplication. This guide details the specific conditions treatable by Fucidin and its various formulations.

Skin Infections Treated by Fucidin

Fucidin, in cream or ointment form, is a widely used topical antibiotic effective against various skin infections due to its ability to penetrate skin layers.

Impetigo

A common application for topical Fucidin is treating impetigo. This contagious bacterial infection typically manifests as red sores that blister and form honey-colored crusts. Fucidin targets the Staphylococcus bacteria causing impetigo, helping to clear the infection and limit its spread.

Infected Eczema and Dermatitis

For those with eczema or dermatitis, broken skin can become infected. Fucidin treats these secondary bacterial infections, reducing associated redness, crusting, and swelling. Combination products like Fucidin H, which includes hydrocortisone, can address both infection and inflammation.

Folliculitis, Boils, and Abscesses

Fucidin is effective against hair follicle infections (folliculitis) and boils. It also assists in healing smaller abscesses after drainage, controlling bacteria and promoting faster recovery.

Infected Wounds, Cuts, and Burns

For superficial wounds, cuts, and burns with bacterial infections, topical Fucidin eliminates pathogens and aids healing on broken skin.

Eye Infections Treated by Fucidin

Fucidin is also available as eye drops for specific bacterial eye infections.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the eye's outer membrane and eyelid lining, is treated with Fucidin eye drops. They target Staphylococcus and other susceptible bacteria, easing redness, itchiness, and discharge. The drops' thick consistency allows for longer contact time.

Eye Styes and Blepharitis

Styes, caused by Staphylococcus aureus infecting eyelash follicles or glands, are effectively treated with fusidic acid, which is also used for blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).

Comparison of Fucidin Formulations

Fucidin comes in several forms suited for different applications.


Feature	Fucidin Cream	Fucidin Ointment	Fucidin Eye Drops	Fucidin Tablets/Suspension
Active Ingredient	Fusidic acid	Sodium fusidate	Fusidic acid	Sodium fusidate
Primary Use	Infected eczema, dermatitis, impetigo	Deeper skin infections, impetigo, wound infections	Bacterial conjunctivitis, eye styes	Severe, systemic staphylococcal infections (e.g., bone and joint)
Consistency	White, water-based cream	Translucent yellowish-white, oil-based ointment	Viscous gel	Oral tablets or liquid
Application Area	Most skin surfaces, including sensitive facial skin (with caution)	Most skin surfaces, especially dry, crusted areas	Eye only	Systemic distribution throughout the body
Administration	Topical application	Topical application	Applied to the eye	Oral intake

Important Considerations for Using Fucidin

Adhering to prescribing guidelines is crucial for effectiveness and minimizing risks. Topical treatments are typically for a limited duration, and completing the full course is vital to prevent antibiotic resistance. Fucidin is ineffective against viral (like cold sores) or fungal infections (like thrush). Using it for non-bacterial infections contributes to antibiotic resistance. Avoid applying topical Fucidin on large areas or for extended periods to reduce side effect risks. When using on the face, prevent contact with eyes.

Conclusion

Fucidin (fusidic acid) is an effective antibiotic for specific bacterial infections, particularly Staphylococcus species, treating conditions like impetigo, infected eczema, and bacterial conjunctivitis. However, its use requires careful attention to the prescribed course and an understanding that it does not treat viral or fungal infections. Always consult a healthcare professional to ensure Fucidin is appropriate for your condition. Further details are available from reliable sources such as the NHS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fucidin cream has a water-based consistency and is often used for infected eczema or dermatitis, while the oilier Fucidin ointment is useful for dry, crusted areas like those found with impetigo.

Studies have shown that Fucidin (fusidic acid) has potent activity against MRSA. However, due to the risk of resistance, it should not be used as a monotherapy for serious MRSA infections.

Fucidin does have activity against some bacteria involved in acne, but it is not a first-line treatment. Prolonged use can lead to resistance, and other topical antibiotics are typically preferred.

No, Fucidin is an antibiotic and is ineffective against viral infections, including cold sores which are caused by the herpes simplex virus.

For most topical skin infections, the duration of treatment is typically recommended by a healthcare professional. It is crucial to complete the full course as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent resistance.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled application, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose.

Yes, Fucidin cream and ointment can be applied to broken skin to treat infections in minor cuts, grazes, and open wounds caused by susceptible bacteria.

Common side effects for topical forms include mild irritation, burning, or redness at the application site. For oral forms (less common), gastrointestinal upset and liver problems have been reported.