Hydrofusin (Fusidic Acid, Hydrocortisone Acetate)

Hydrofusin is indicated for dermatological conditions where both bacterial infection and inflammation are present, providing a combined antimicrobial and anti‑inflammatory approach.

• Treatment of impetigo and other superficial bacterial skin infections.
• Management of infected eczema or atopic dermatitis flares.
• Adjunct therapy for secondary infection of psoriasis plaques.
• Relief of inflammatory dermatoses such as seborrheic dermatitis with suspected bacterial colonisation.
• Post‑procedural wound care where infection risk and inflammation coexist.

• Fusidic acid exerts its antibacterial effect by binding to bacterial elongation factor G, thereby blocking protein synthesis and halting bacterial growth. Hydrocortisone acetate, a glucocorticoid pro‑drug, is converted in the skin to active hydrocortisone, which binds glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to suppress cytokine production, reduce leukocyte migration, and diminish edema and erythema. The combined actions address both infection and inflammatory response simultaneously.

Topical application of Hydrofusin may be associated with local skin reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common

• Mild burning, stinging, or tingling sensation at the site of application.
• Localized itching or pruritus that usually resolves with continued use.
• Transient redness (erythema) that diminishes after several days.
• Dryness, flaking, or mild peeling of the treated skin.

Serious

• Development of contact dermatitis with papules, vesicles, or crusting.
• Secondary bacterial or fungal infection occurring in the treated area.
• Skin atrophy, thinning, or striae with prolonged or extensive application.
• Systemic hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis (rare).

Before using Hydrofusin, certain precautions should be considered to minimize risks and ensure appropriate therapy.

• Avoid application on broken skin, open wounds, or mucous membranes unless directed by a clinician.
• Limit use to the prescribed area and duration to reduce the risk of skin atrophy.
• Do not use on viral, fungal, or parasitic skin infections without confirming bacterial involvement.
• Caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to fusidic acid, hydrocortisone, or other corticosteroids.
• Use sparingly in children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals; consult a healthcare professional.
• Discontinue if signs of allergic reaction or worsening infection appear.

Hydrofusin may interact with other topical or systemic agents; awareness of potential interactions helps maintain safety.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other potent topical corticosteroids on the same area, which can increase systemic absorption.
• Application together with occlusive dressings that may enhance drug penetration and risk of side effects.

Use with caution

• Systemic antibiotics that share similar bacterial resistance patterns, potentially reducing efficacy.
• Antifungal creams applied nearby, as altered skin flora may affect infection control.
• Phototherapy or UV exposure, which can increase skin sensitivity when combined with corticosteroids.
• Topical immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus) applied to adjacent areas, as combined immunosuppression may raise infection risk.
• Use of other anti‑inflammatory agents on the same site, which may potentiate local effects.