Fucibet contains two different types of medicine. One medicine is called Fusidic acid. It is a type of antibiotic. The other medicine is called Betamethasone valerate 0.1%. It is a type of corticosteroid (steroid). These two medicines work at the same time in different ways. Fucibet works by the antibiotic killing germs (bacteria) that cause infections, and the corticosteroid reducing any swelling, redness or itchiness of your skin. Fucibet is used to treat conditions where the skin is inflamed (eczema or dermatitis) and infected by germs (bacteria) such as infected eczema, dermatitis or infected minor wounds or minor burns.
Fucibet should not be used to treat fungal or viral infections as it contains an antibiotic which is only active against bacterial infections. Our Specialist Dermatology Pharmacists at DigiDerm will help you decide if it is the most appropriate and safe treatment before prescribing.
Fucibet should not be used for things like acne, impetigo, boils, cysts, jock itch, ring worm, athletes foot or infected cold sores. It is normally solely reserved for use in treating moderate to severe, infected eczema.
Fucibet versus Fucidin H
Fucibet contains a potent steroid (Betamethasone 0.1%) compared to the much milder steroid found in Fucidin H (Hydrocortisone 1%). Therefore, we would recommend treatment with Fucibet instead of Fucidin H if the symptoms of inflammation (redness, swelling, irritation) are more severe. They both contain the same antibiotic ingredient (Fusidic acid).
How do I Know if my Eczema is Infected?
During the online consultation our Specialist Dermatology Prescribers will assess your skin and advise you if Fucibet is a safe and appropriate option for treatment, or if there are better alternatives.
In general, antibiotics have a limited role in eczema, and they can also be associated with the development of bacterial resistance. However, they may be useful if eczema continues to flare despite treating with topical steroids alone, and bacterial infection is suspected.
Signs that your eczema may be infected with bacteria include:
• Your skin may appear itchier and redder or darker than your usual skin colour- If you look closely in natural light, you might see a tangerine glisten to the skin.
• As the infection progresses, weeping and crusting with a yellow/golden tinge will be evident.
• In more severe cases of infection- you may have a fever, temperature, nausea and feel generally unwell. If you have any of these symptoms or any other concerning signs of severe infection, then we would advise you to seek urgent care with your GP or NHS Out-Of-Hours Service.
What Else Could it be?
If you are unsure then you can book a telephone or video consultation or fill in a FREE online questionnaire, attach some photos and we will get back to you with some suggestions.
Other common skin infections in people who suffer with eczema include:
• Fungal infections- such as candida (e.g., candidal intertrigo) and tinea (e.g. athletes foot, ringworm)- these are normally found in moist skin folds such as under the arm, groin and breasts. These types of infection will require antifungal treatment and therefore Fucibet is not appropriate.
• Viral infections- there is a serious condition called Eczema Herpeticum which is caused by the cold sore virus, and it is important that you seek Urgent Care if you suspect you have this condition. Symptoms of Eczema Herpeticum include areas of painful eczema that quickly get worse, groups of fluid-filled blisters that break open and leave small, shallow, open sores on the skin, and a high temperature and generally feeling unwell. Fucibet is not appropriate for viral infections.
How do I Prevent my Eczema from Becoming Infected in the First Place?
• Maintain a healthy skin barrier with regular, frequent application of a suitable emollient cream or ointment.
• Get on top of any flare ups quickly by using topical steroid creams/ ointments appropriately.
• Try to stop Itching and Scratching as this will open the skin surface making it more likely to entry from bacteria, fungus and viruses.
See our Eczema condition guide for more info.
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