Products
Fusidic acid is commercially available as film-coated tablets, cream, ointment, gauze, and ophthalmic drip gel (including Fucidin, Fucithalmic, and generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1968. See also under fusidic acid eye gel.
Structure and properties
Fusidic acid (C31H48O6, Mr = 516.7 g/mol) belongs to the steroid antibiotics. It is obtained by fermentation from certain strains of or produced by other processes. Fusidic acid exists as a white crystalline powder and is practically insoluble in water. The sodium salt, sodium fusidate, on the other hand, is very slightly soluble in water. Pharmaceuticals contain either the acid or the sodium salt.
Effects
Fusidic acid (ATC J01XC01) has bactericidal properties and is predominantly effective against Gram-positive pathogens. The effects are based on inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis.
Indications
For the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases with susceptible pathogens.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The film-coated tablets should be taken during meals. The external dosage forms are usually applied one to three times daily.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Combination with CYP3A4 substrates.
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Fusidic acid is metabolized by CYP3A4 and inhibits CYP3A4. The concentration of corresponding substrates may be increased, resulting in toxicity and adverse reactions.
Adverse effects
Local reactions such as burning, itching, stinging, redness, and allergic reactions are possible with external treatment. The most common possible adverse effects of internal treatment include nausea, diarrhea, lower abdominal pain, vomiting, malaise, fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, and weight loss.
