Fusidic acid is an antibiotic medicine that is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is usually prescribed for skin infections, such as impetigo, infected eczema and infected wounds. Fusidic acid works by preventing bacteria from producing proteins that are essential to them. Without these proteins the bacteria cannot grow, replicate and increase in numbers. Fusidic acid can also be used to treat certain eye infections and some types of pneumonia. Fusidic acid may also be used to prevent infections in people who are having certain types of surgery.
Fusidic acid is a steroid antibiotic medication primarily used to treat mild to moderate skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It is also sometimes used to treat eye infections. Fusidic acid comes in various formulations, including:
- Topical cream or ointment for skin infections
- Eye drops for eye infections
- Tablets or capsules for oral administration (usually reserved for severe infections or hospital use)
- Injections (for hospital use)
Fusidic acid works by interfering with bacterial protein synthesis, specifically by preventing the translocation of elongation factor G (EF-G) from the ribosome. This essentially halts bacterial growth, allowing the immune system to clear the infection.
Here's a summary of Fusidic acid:
- Type of medication: Antibiotic
- Dosage forms: Topical cream, ointment, eye drops, tablets, capsules, injections
- Conditions treated: Bacterial skin infections, bacterial eye infections
- Mechanism of action: Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis
- Availability: Prescription medication
Important Note: Fusidic acid is a prescription medication and should only be used as directed by a doctor. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure all bacteria are eliminated and prevent resistance.