Fusidic acid + Betamethasone

Introduction: Fusidic acid + Betamethasone is a combination medicine that is used to treat various types of skin infections. It minimizes symptoms of inflammation such as redness, swelling, and itching. It also has antimicrobial action against infection-causing microorganisms.

How it works: Betamethasone is a steroid medicine that blocks the production of certain chemical messengers (prostaglandins) that make the skin red, swollen and itchy. Fusidic Acid is an antibiotic that stops bacterial growth by preventing the synthesis of essential proteins required by the bacteria.

Important Information: For external use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth or vagina. Do not use for more than 2 weeks.

• Eczema and dermatitis with secondary infections: including atopic dermatitis, allergic and seborrhoeic dermatitis and primary irritant dermatitis.

Other Topical corticosteroids

Topical Corticosteroid + Antibiotic

Fusidic acid is effective against gram-positive bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus and Corynebacterium minutissimum. The antibacterial action of fusidic acid results from inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis. Betamethasone induces lipocortin which inhibits phospholipase A-2 enzyme, resulting in inhibition of different inflammatory mediators synthesis like prostaglandins, kinins, histamines.

Betamethasone blocks production of inflammatory mediators and fusidic acid inhibits bacterial protein synthesis to control infection.

Adult Dose:

• Apply to the affected area(s) twice daily and gently massage.
• Max duration: 2 weeks.
• A shorter course should be considered if symptoms improve.

Children: Not recommended in children under 3 years of age.

* Use as directed by the registered physician

For external use only. Use in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Clean and dry the affected area and apply the cream. Wash your hands after applying, unless hands are the affected area.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule.

Common Side Effects:

• Burning sensation at application site
• Irritation
• Itching
• Redness
• Allergic reactions
• Headache
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Yellow eyes or skin

Precautions:

• Long term continuous therapy should be avoided, particularly in the face, on flexures and intertriginous areas and in infants and children.
• Avoid contact with eyes, nose or mouth.
• Do not cover the area being treated with airtight dressings (may increase risk of side effects).
• Consult your doctor if your skin condition has not improved after two weeks of treatment.

Contraindications:

• Skin lesions of viral, fungal or bacterial origin
• Acne rosacea
• Perioral dermatitis
• Tuberculosis and fungal skin infections
• Hypersensitivity to any of the components

Drug Interactions:

• Fusidic Acid: Synergistic action with antistaphylococcal penicillin. Antagonism with ciprofloxacin.
• Betamethasone: Increased hyperglycaemia and hypokalaemia with thiazide diuretics. Increased incidence of peptic ulcer or GI bleeding with concurrent NSAIDs.

Food Interactions: No interaction found/established.

Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

Use in Lactation: Fusidic acid and betamethasone have been detected in breast milk. Nursing mothers are advised not to use the drug.

Pediatric Use: Not recommended in children under 3 years of age.

Geriatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for elderly patients.

Renal & Hepatic Impairment: No known restrictions (minimal systemic absorption due to topical use).

Overdose: Overdose is unlikely when used as directed. Excessive use may cause skin irritation.

Storage: Store below 25°C, in a dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Fusidic Acid + Betamethasone Topical Cream