Fusiderm B

betamethasone + fusidic acid

Brand(s):

• Fusiderm B

Manufacturer:

• Indi Pharma Pvt. Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Eczema

Betamethasone and Fusidic Acid Cream

What is Betamethasone and Fusidic Acid Cream?

This cream combines betamethasone and fusidic acid to tackle eczema complicated by a bacterial infection. Betamethasone, a topical corticosteroid, calms the skin's inflammation, while fusidic acid, an antibiotic, fights the infection. Eczema inflammation stems from skin irritation and the body's immune response, causing redness, swelling, itching, and pain. Betamethasone works within skin cells to reduce the release of inflammatory substances, easing these symptoms. It's considered a potent corticosteroid. Fusidic acid, on the other hand, enters bacterial cells, hindering protein production crucial for bacterial growth and multiplication. It doesn't directly kill bacteria but stops them from reproducing, ultimately allowing the immune system to eliminate them.

Important Information for Healthcare Professionals

• Pregnancy: Use during pregnancy should only be considered if deemed essential by a doctor. If prescribed, it shouldn't be applied to large skin areas, under airtight dressings, or for extended periods. Further advice should be sought from a doctor.
• Breastfeeding: Use during breastfeeding should only be considered if deemed essential by a doctor. If prescribed, it shouldn't be used on large skin areas, under airtight dressings, or for prolonged periods. If applied to the breasts, it must be thoroughly washed off before breastfeeding and reapplied afterward.

How to Use Betamethasone and Fusidic Acid Cream

• Apply a thin layer to affected skin areas once or twice daily, as directed by a doctor.
• If dressings are advised, cleanse the skin before applying the cream under a fresh dressing.
• Wash hands thoroughly after application, unless the hands are the treated area.
• Because of the antimicrobial component, generally use for no more than two weeks. Longer use might increase the risk of microbial resistance. If no improvement is seen within seven days, consult a doctor.
• Do not exceed the doctor's recommended frequency or duration of use.
• Do not mix with moisturisers or other products. Allow at least 30 minutes between applying different products to allow for absorption and prevent mixing on the skin.

Warnings

• For external use only on affected skin.
• Never use as a moisturiser.
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or nose. Rinse with cold water if accidental contact occurs.
• Long-term use on large areas, raw skin, skin folds, or under airtight dressings increases absorption, raising the risk of skin thinning and other systemic effects, such as decreased natural hormone production. Avoid prolonged use, especially in children, on the face, and large skin areas. Only use airtight dressings if instructed by a doctor.
• Do not use for longer than prescribed or for recurrent infections without consulting a doctor, as this may lead to skin sensitivity or allergy.
• Consult a doctor if infection spreads or if there's little to no improvement after seven days, as alternative treatment might be necessary.

Use with Caution In

• Children
• Psoriasis: Regular check-ups are necessary if prescribed for psoriasis, as corticosteroids, while sometimes helpful short-term, can worsen psoriasis or cause relapse.

Drug Interactions

No known interactions with other medications. However, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications (including over-the-counter and herbal remedies) before and during treatment. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medications.

Allow several minutes between applying other topical medications or moisturisers. Moisturisers applied shortly before or after this cream can dilute the corticosteroid, reducing its effectiveness. Consider applying moisturisers at a different time, at least 30 minutes apart.

When Not to Use Betamethasone and Fusidic Acid Cream

This medicine is not suitable for:

• Primary bacterial skin infections (not secondary to eczema, e.g., impetigo).
• Fungal skin infections (e.g., athlete's foot, ringworm, candida).
• Viral skin infections (e.g., chickenpox, shingles, cold sores, herpes simplex).
• Skin tuberculosis.
• Syphilis-related skin rashes.
• Acne vulgaris.
• Acne rosacea.
• Perioral dermatitis (inflammation around the mouth).
• Itchy skin around the genitals or anus.
• Widespread plaque psoriasis.
• (For specific formulations) Children under a certain age.

Do not use if allergic to any ingredients. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any previous allergies. Stop use and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if an allergic reaction occurs.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects vary. Those reported include:

• Skin irritation (redness, rash, itching, burning). Stop use and consult a doctor if a reaction occurs or the condition worsens.
• Skin thinning.
• Reduced skin pigmentation.
• Stretch marks.
• Visible fine blood vessels (telangiectasia).
• Excessive hair growth.
• Inflammation of hair follicles.
• Rarely, with prolonged use on extensive areas, broken skin, skin folds, or under airtight dressings, sufficient corticosteroid absorption can cause systemic effects (e.g., decreased hormone production).

This list may not include all reported side effects. Refer to the product information or consult a doctor or pharmacist for more details.