What it is used for
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
- Bacterial eye infections, including those caused by staphylococcus
How it works
Fusidic acid is an antibiotic that blocks bacteria from making the proteins they need to survive. The eye drops form a gel on contact, so the medicine stays in contact with the eye surface for longer.
How it is taken
Supplied as a thickened eye-drop gel. A drop is placed inside the affected eye. Wash your hands first, keep the dropper tip from touching your eye or any surface, and finish the full course as directed even if your eye looks better. Follow your doctor's, pharmacist's or the label's instructions exactly, and do not share the bottle.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Brief stinging or burning on application
- Temporary blurred vision as the gel spreads
- Mild eye irritation
- A taste in the mouth after use
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat, severe rash, or trouble breathing
- Worsening eye pain, redness or vision changes despite treatment
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other eye drops (space applications apart; ask a pharmacist)
- Contact lenses (avoid wearing during treatment)
- Soft contact lenses can be affected by some eye-drop ingredients
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Not suitable if you are allergic to fusidic acid
- Remove contact lenses before use unless advised otherwise
- Discard after the opened-bottle period stated on the label