Fusidic acid is an antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria.
Take Fusidic acid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Try to take it at the same time each day.
Fusidic acid is available as a tablet (as Sodium Fusidate) or as an oral suspension.
If you are taking a tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water. Do not cut, crush or chew the tablet.
If you are taking an oral suspension, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your prescribed dose.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.
Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not take Fusidic acid if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes) to similar medicines.
Do not take this medicine with cholesterol-lowering medicines such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin and simvastatin.
Inform your doctor if you have liver disease.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are taking Fusidic acid, you may need to have regular examinations of your liver function. Your doctor will advise you how often you need to have these tests.
Fusidic acid may cause any of the following side effects: tiredness, weakness, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain or discomfort, stomach wind, and indigestion.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, stomach pain, tiredness, nausea or vomiting
- muscle weakness, tenderness or pain
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Fusidic acid with cholesterol-lowering medicines such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin and simvastatin.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other antibiotics e.g. lincomycin
- medicines to treat TB (infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. rifampicin
- medicines for HIV infection e.g. ritonavir, saquinavir
- medicine used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders e.g. ciclosporin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Fusidic acid.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.