GPhC Registered: 9012621
Fusidic Acid 2% Cream for Impetigo
Fusidic Acid 2% Cream for Impetigo
• Antibiotic cream for impetigo
• Suitable for localised infection if clinically appropriate
• Prescription-only medicine following online assessment
• Discreet, regulated service with delivery available
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Experienced UK-registered prescribers
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2-minute consultation
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About the product
What is Fusidic Acid 2% Cream?
Fusidic acid 2% cream is a topical antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial skin infections. It may be used for impetigo when a topical antibiotic is considered appropriate, particularly for localised non-bullous impetigo.
This product page refers to fusidic acid 2% cream supplied on a private prescription following an online consultation.
How does Fusidic Acid work?
Fusidic acid works by interfering with bacterial protein production, which stops susceptible bacteria from growing and helps clear the infection. This may reduce symptoms such as crusting, redness, soreness and localised skin inflammation when impetigo is caused by bacteria.
What is Fusidic Acid 2% Cream used for on this page?
On this product page, fusidic acid 2% cream is used specifically for:
- Localised non-bullous impetigo where a topical antibiotic is considered appropriate
- Small, limited areas of crusted or weeping superficial bacterial skin infection
It is not used here for:
- More widespread impetigo where an oral antibiotic may be more appropriate
- Bullous impetigo
- Viral skin rashes
- Fungal skin infections
- Severe or rapidly worsening skin infection needing urgent face-to-face assessment
- Children
Your prescriber will confirm fusidic acid is appropriate based on your symptoms, medical history and any other medicines you are using.
Who may be suitable for Fusidic Acid 2% Cream?
You may be suitable if:
- You have a small, localised area of impetigo
- The affected area is suitable for a topical antibiotic
- You do not have red-flag symptoms suggesting a more serious infection
- You are able to apply a cream regularly and follow after-care advice
Your prescriber will consider:
- How long your symptoms have been present and how severe they are
- Whether the area is small and localised or more widespread
- Whether you have fever, increasing pain or feel unwell
- Any history of allergy or sensitivity to ingredients in skin products
- Any other medicines or health conditions you have
before deciding if fusidic acid is suitable for you.
Who should not use Fusidic Acid 2% Cream or needs medical advice first?
Do not use without medical advice if you:
- Are allergic to fusidic acid or any of the ingredients in the cream
- Have rapidly spreading infection
- Have fever, severe pain, facial swelling or feel generally unwell
- Have infection near the eyes, lips or inside the mouth
- Have a large area of broken skin or more widespread impetigo
- Are not sure whether the rash is actually impetigo
Use with caution and seek prescriber advice if you:
- Have repeated skin infections
- Have eczema, diabetes or reduced immunity
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding and want to check suitability
- Have symptoms that are not clearly due to localised impetigo
How do I use Fusidic Acid 2% Cream?
Your prescriber will confirm the exact directions.
Practical advice:
- Wash and dry your hands before and after use
- Gently clean and dry the affected area before applying the cream
- Apply only to the affected skin
- Do not share the cream with others
- Do not use antibacterial skin products such as fusidic acid for longer than advised
- If symptoms are not improving, seek further medical advice
General self-care advice
- Keep the area clean and dry where possible
- Avoid scratching, picking or touching the affected skin
- Do not share towels, flannels, pillowcases or other personal items
- Wash hands regularly, especially after touching the affected area
- Wash pillowcases, face cloths and towels frequently while the infection is active
- Stay away from work or close-contact settings if advised until treatment has started and lesions are covered or improving
Side effects and when to get help
Common side effects can include mild burning, irritation, itching or redness where the cream is applied. These are usually mild and short-lived.
Seek medical advice urgently if you develop severe irritation, worsening redness, swelling, blistering, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
How it works
Online consultation
Fill out a simple online form with no GP or pharmacy visits.
Clinical review
A UK-registered pharmacist reviews your details to decide the best treatment option for you.
Receive your prescription
If prescribed, you can get express delivery in discreet packaging right to your doorstep.
Delivery Information
Royal Mail Tracked 24
1–2 working days
£3.99
Royal Mail Special Delivery
Guaranteed next working day delivery
£8.95
Discreet Packaging
All orders are sent in plain, unmarked packaging with no indication of the contents. Your privacy is our priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fusidic acid cream is often used when impetigo is small and localised, and when a topical antibiotic is considered enough on its own.
Some people notice improvement within a few days, but it is important to keep using it exactly as directed. If the area is getting worse or not improving, seek further advice.
No. It is generally more suitable for small, localised areas. More widespread or more severe impetigo may need a different treatment.
A mild burning or stinging sensation can happen for a short time after applying it. This is usually temporary.
Yes. Impetigo can spread easily through close contact or shared items such as towels. Good hygiene and not sharing personal items are important.
If redness is spreading, the area is becoming more painful, you develop fever, or you feel unwell, seek medical advice promptly as you may need a different treatment.
Using antibacterial skin products for longer than needed can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. It should only be used for the advised course length.
No. This information supports, but does not replace, advice from your GP, pharmacist or another qualified healthcare professional. Always follow the directions on your prescription and the patient information leaflet supplied with your medicine.
Regulated and Safe
General Pharmaceutical Council
My Chemist Plus is registered and regulated by the GPhC, who are the official body that regulates and inspects all pharmacies in the UK. They are responsible to ensure we provide the highest standards in care.
LegitScript certification
My Chemist Plus is certified by Legit Script, who monitors online pharmacies to evaluate compliance, adherence and licensing to regulation.