Skin infections can be a real pain, causing discomfort and worry. When you’re looking for relief, you might come across two similar-sounding treatments: Fucidin Cream and Fucidin H Cream.
While their names are similar, these creams have different ingredients and uses. Whether you’re dealing with a bacterial infection, inflammation, or both, knowing which cream to use will help you get the right treatment.
The Differences Between Fucidin and Fucidin H Cream: At a Glance
Feature | Fucidin Cream | Fucidin H Cream |
Active ingredients | Fusidic acid 2% | Fusidic acid 2% + Hydrocortisone acetate 1% |
Medication Form | Topical Cream | Topical Cream |
What it does | Fights skin bacteria | Fights skin bacteria and reduces inflammation |
Used to Treat | Treats atopic eczema and dermatitisInfected cuts and scrapes Impetigo (skin infection) | Infected atopic eczema and dermatitis Skin irritations like rashes Inflammation caused by cuts, scrapes or skin damage |
Anti-inflammatory effect | No | Yes (due to hydrocortisone) |
Suitable for open wounds | No | No |
Safe for use on the face | Yes | Yes, but with caution due to hydrocortisone |
Safe for use on babies | Yes | Yes, but only if advised by a GP or pharmacist |
Side Effects of Fusidic Acid | Skin irritation Burning or stinging sensation | Mild irritation Itching or burning at the application site |
Typical treatment duration | 1-2 weeks | Up to 2 weeks |
Application frequency | 2-3 times daily | Applied twice daily unless directed otherwise. |
Prescription required | Yes | Yes |
What is Fucidin Cream?
Fucidin cream is a prescription topical antibiotic that contains fusidic acid, which tackles bacterial infections on the skin. When applied, it works to stop bacteria from growing, helping to clear up infections effectively. Fucidin cream is often prescribed by doctors or pharmacists for lots of different skin issues, making it a reliable choice for treating infected areas.
What is Fucidin Cream used for?
Fucidin cream treats infected skin conditions caused by bacteria, such as infected eczema or dermatitis, impetigo, infected wounds and infections around the nails.
Fucidin cream isn’t suitable for treating viral infections like cold sores or fungal infections like athlete’s foot. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as a sudden rash, unexplained itching, or persistent skin discolouration that doesn’t seem like a typical bacterial infection, it’s best to speak to a GP or pharmacist. These symptoms could indicate a viral or fungal infection, which would require different treatment approaches.
What is Fucidin H Cream?
Fucidin H cream is a dual-action prescription topical treatment that combines two active ingredients: fusidic acid, an antibiotic, and hydrocortisone, a mild steroid. This formulation is particularly effective for treating skin conditions that involve both infections and inflammation.
Fusidic acid works to eliminate bacteria that cause infection, while hydrocortisone helps reduce redness, swelling, and itching. Fucidin H cream is available by prescription and is commonly used for various dermatological issues,
What is Fucidin H Cream used for?
Use Fucidin H cream to treat infected skin conditions with secondary bacterial infections and inflammation. Thanks to its combination of fusidic acid and hydrocortisone, it’s effective for infected eczema or dermatitis flare-ups and impetigo.
What is the difference between Fucidin and Fucidin H Cream?
Ingredients
The main difference between fucidin and fucidin H cream is their ingredients. Fucidin cream contains fusidic acid, an antibiotic specifically aimed at fighting bacterial infections on the skin. Fucidin H cream combines fusidic acid with hydrocortisone, a mild steroid that also helps reduce inflammation in the affected area.
What They Treat
When it comes to what they treat, Fucidin cream is great for straightforward bacteria-related infections without much inflammation. Fucidin H cream is designed for situations where you have both an infection and inflammation – think red, itchy, or swollen skin.
Duration of Use
Fucidin cream can often be used for longer stretches without concern. However, because Fucidin H cream contains hydrocortisone, it’s usually recommended for shorter periods to avoid any potential side effects from prolonged steroid use.
When should Fucidin H cream be used instead of regular Fucidin cream?
Choosing between Fucidin and Fucidin H cream depends on your specific skin condition.
Condition | Recommended Cream | Reason |
Simple bacterial skin infections | Fucidin cream | Targets bacteria without additional anti-inflammatory effects |
Impetigo without significant inflammation | Fucidin cream | Effective against the bacteria causing impetigo |
Infected wounds or cuts | Fucidin cream | Treats the infection without affecting the healing process |
Infected hair follicles | Fucidin cream | Addresses the bacterial cause of folliculitis |
Infected eczema with inflammation | Fucidin H cream | Treats infection and reduces inflammation |
Dermatitis with a bacterial infection | Fucidin H cream | Addresses both infection and underlying skin irritation |
Impetigo with significant inflammation | Fucidin H cream | Fights bacteria while soothing inflamed skin |
Skin infections with itching or redness | Fucidin H cream | Provides antibiotic action and relieves inflammatory symptoms |
Need treatment for a skin condition? Choose Click2Pharmacy’s Eczema & Dermatitis Clinic
If you’re struggling with itchy, irritated skin, our Eczema & Dermatitis Clinic is here to help. Our experienced pharmacists are ready to assess your symptoms and prescribe effective treatments – all from the comfort of your home.
With our online consultation, you won’t have to wait for a GP appointment. We can prescribe appropriate medications, including topical treatments like Fucidin or Fucidin H cream if they’re right for your condition. Our pharmacists will review your symptoms and medical history to ensure you receive the right treatment option.
Take the first step towards healthier, happier skin by visiting Click2Pharmacy’s Eczema & Dermatitis Clinic today. Quick, convenient prescribing for your skin concerns is just a click away!