Fucidin Cream vs. Topical Antibiotic Alternatives: Detailed Comparison

By Keith Ward Oct 7 2025 19 Comments

Topical Antibiotic Selection Guide

Infection Type

Treatment Preference

Recommended Treatment

Fucidin Cream

Ideal for mild-to-moderate Gram-positive skin infections like impetigo and minor cuts.

Usage: Apply thin layer 2-3 times daily for 5-7 days.

Antibiotic Comparison Table

Antibiotic	Spectrum	MRSA Coverage	Prescription	Cost (2025)
Fucidin Cream	Gram-positive (S. aureus)	Low	Prescription	£7-£9
Mupirocin	Gram-positive (including MRSA)	High	Prescription	£12-£15
Bacitracin	Gram-positive (Staph, Strep)	Low	OTC	£2-£3
Clindamycin	Anaerobes, Gram-positive	Moderate	Prescription	£10-£13
Retapamulin	Gram-positive + limited Gram-negative	High	Prescription	£14-£16
Neomycin-Bacitracin-Polymyxin B	Broad (Gram-positive & negative)	Low	OTC	£3-£4

Note: For suspected MRSA infections, mupirocin or retapamulin are recommended. Consult a healthcare provider for persistent or severe infections.

Key Takeaways

Fucidin Cream (fusidic acid) targets Gram‑positive bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus, and is ideal for mild‑to‑moderate skin infections.
Common alternatives - mupirocin, bacitracin, clindamycin, retapamulin, and neomycin - differ in spectrum, resistance risk, and cost.
For MRSA‑suspected cases, mupirocin or retapamulin usually outperform Fucidin.
Prescription rules vary: Fucidin and mupirocin need a prescription in the UK, while bacitracin and neomycin are often sold OTC.
Correct application (thin layer, 2‑3 times daily, full course) reduces resistance and speeds healing.

What is Fucidin Cream?

When you see the name Fucidin Cream is a topical antibiotic formulation that contains the active ingredient fusidic acid. It was first introduced in the 1960s and quickly became a go‑to for skin infections caused by Gram‑positive bacteria.

Fusidic acid works by binding to bacterial elongation factor G (EF‑G), halting protein synthesis and stopping bacterial growth. Because it targets a step not commonly affected by other antibiotics, resistance develops slower than with some alternatives.

Typical Uses and Effectiveness

Fucidin is most effective for:

Impetigo (especially non‑bullous form)
Superficial cellulitis
Secondary infection of eczema or insect bites
Small abrasions, cuts, or burns that have become infected

Clinical trials in the UK show cure rates around 90% when applied twice daily for 5‑7days. The drug is well‑tolerated; the most common side effect is mild local irritation.

Row of various antibiotic ointment tubes on a pharmacy counter with stylized bacterial icons.

Alternatives on the Market

Below is a quick snapshot of the main competitors you’ll encounter in UK pharmacies.

Mupirocin - a bacterial protein synthesis inhibitor effective against a broad range of Gram‑positive organisms, including MRSA.
Bacitracin - a polypeptide that disrupts cell‑wall synthesis, mainly used for minor cuts and abrasions.
Clindamycin - a lincosamide with strong activity against anaerobes and some resistant Staphylococcus strains.
Retapamulin - a newer pleuromutilin antibiotic that covers both Gram‑positive and some Gram‑negative skin pathogens.
Neomycin - an aminoglycoside commonly combined with bacitracin and polymyxin B in over‑the‑counter ointments.

Side‑by‑Side Comparison

Topical Antibiotic Comparison - Key Attributes
Attribute	Fucidin Cream (Fusidic Acid)	Mupirocin	Bacitracin	Clindamycin	Retapamulin	Neomycin‑Bacitracin‑Polymyxin B Mix
Active ingredient (strength)	2% fusidic acid	2% mupirocin	500U/g bacitracin	1% clindamycin	0.25% retapamulin	Neomycin 0.5%, bacitracin 500U/g, polymyxin B 10U/g
Primary spectrum	Gram‑positive (Staphylococcus spp.)	Gram‑positive including MRSA	Gram‑positive (Staph, Strep)	Anaerobes, Gram‑positive	Gram‑positive + limited Gram‑negative	Broad (Gram‑positive &‑negative)
Typical dosage	Thin layer 2‑3×day, 5‑7days	Thin layer 3×day, 5‑10days	Thin layer 3‑4×day, up to 5days	Thin layer 2‑3×day, 7‑10days	Thin layer 2×day, 5days	Thin layer 3‑4×day, 5‑7days
Common side effects	Local irritation, itching	Burning, itching	Allergic dermatitis	GI upset (rare topical), rash	Redness, mild pain	Allergic reaction, especially to neomycin
Resistance concerns	Low but rising with misuse	Low; preferred for MRSA	High in chronic use	Moderate; clindamycin‑inducing C. difficile rare topically	Very low; new class	High cross‑resistance to aminoglycosides
Prescription status (UK)	Prescription‑only	Prescription‑only	OTC (small packs)	Prescription‑only	Prescription‑only	OTC (combined ointment)
Average cost (2025, per 30g tube)	£7‑£9	£12‑£15	£2‑£3	£10‑£13	£14‑£16	£3‑£4

How to Choose the Right Cream for Your Situation

Pick a product based on three practical factors:

Infection type and likely bacteria. If you suspect a simple Staphylococcus infection (common in minor cuts), Fucidin or bacitracin works. For suspected MRSA, jump to mupirocin or retapamulin.
Prescription access. OTC users often gravitate to bacitracin or neomycin mixes, but remember they don’t cover resistant strains.
Cost and treatment length. Longer courses increase expense; an OTC option may be cheaper but could need a repeat prescription if it fails.

When in doubt, a quick visit to your GP or pharmacist can confirm the likely pathogen and steer you toward the most effective option.

Step‑by‑step scene of hand washing, wound cleaning, and applying thin cream layer before drying.

Proper Application - Getting the Most Out of Topical Antibiotics

All creams share a similar technique. Follow these steps to avoid treatment failure:

Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
Clean the wound gently with saline; pat dry.
Apply a thin, even layer of the cream, covering the entire lesion and a 5mm margin of healthy skin.
Allow the area to air‑dry for 5‑10minutes before dressing or covering.
Repeat at the prescribed frequency; never skip doses even if the rash looks better.
Finish the full course (usually 5‑10days) to prevent resistant bacteria from surviving.

Don't use plaster or bandage that traps moisture unless specifically advised - excess humidity can encourage bacterial growth.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Using the wrong strength. A 2% fusidic acid cream is standard; lower concentrations (often found in compounding pharmacies) may be ineffective.
Self‑diagnosing severe infections. Deep cellulitis, abscesses, or systemic symptoms (fever, chills) require oral antibiotics or medical review.
Allergic reactions. If you develop a rash that spreads beyond the treated area, stop the product and seek advice - neomycin and bacitracin are common allergens.
Mixing multiple topicals. Applying two antibiotic creams at once can increase irritation and mask signs of failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Fucidin Cream for a fungal infection?

No. Fusidic acid targets bacteria only. For fungal conditions like athlete’s foot, you need an antifungal such as clotrimazole or terbinafine.

Is Fucidin effective against MRSA?

Fusidic acid has limited activity against MRSA. If MRSA is a concern, mupirocin or retapamulin are better choices.

Do I need a prescription for Fucidin in the UK?

Yes. Fucidin is classified as prescription‑only medicine. A pharmacist can provide a short‑term supply with a doctor’s note, but you cannot buy it over the counter.

How long should I keep using the cream after the skin looks healed?

Continue until the full prescribed duration ends (usually 5‑7days). Stopping early can let a few bacteria survive and cause a relapse.

Can I apply Fucidin on open wounds?

Apply only after the wound is cleaned and a thin film of the cream is spread over the surface. If the wound is deep, seek professional care.

Bottom Line

Fucidin Cream remains a solid choice for uncomplicated Gram‑positive skin infections, especially when you need a targeted, low‑resistance option. However, for resistant strains, broader coverage, or OTC convenience, alternatives like mupirocin, retapamulin, or bacitracin‑based mixes may be more appropriate. Always follow the dosing schedule, finish the full course, and consult a healthcare professional if the infection doesn’t improve within a few days.

Comments

Hey folks, just wanted to point out that the price difference between Fucidin and the OTC options can be a real deciding factor for many people, especially if they’re watching their budget. The £7‑£9 tag for a 30g tube of Fucidin isn’t cheap, but it’s still cheaper than a full course of mupirocin which can hit £12‑£15. If you’ve got a minor cut that’s not super infected, the bacitracin at £2‑£3 might do the trick and save a few bucks. On the other hand, for a stubborn impetigo case, spending a bit more on Fucidin could mean a quicker recovery and less chance of it flaring up again. Just something to weigh when you’re deciding which cream to ask your GP about.
October 7
Abhishek A Mishra
In the delicate ballet of skin flora, each topical antibiotic takes its turn on the stage; Fucidin waltzes with Gram‑positive staphylococci, while mupirocin steps bravely into the arena of MRSA. One might argue the choice of partner reflects our desire for harmony or rebellion against resistant strains. The cost, the prescription barrier, and the very chemistry of the active ingredient all compose an unseen symphony that guides the healer’s hand.
October 8
Jaylynn Bachant
So, basically, if you look at the table, Fucidin is great for normal staph infections, bacitracin is cheap, mupirocin is pricey but covers MRSA, retapamulin is newest, clindamycin hits anaerobes, and the triple mix covers everything but can cause allergies, right? Also, remember the prescription rules – you can’t just walk into a shop and grab Fucidin, you need a doctor’s note, whereas bacitracin sits right on the shelf, easy peasy.
October 9
Anuj Ariyo
Team, let’s keep the conversation moving forward – if you’ve tried any of these creams, share what worked for you and why. The more real‑world experiences we pool, the better we can guide each other through the prescription maze and cost hurdles. And remember, finishing the full course isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the key to preventing resistance and getting back to feeling great.
October 9
Tom Lane
Alright, let’s break this down in depth because the nuances matter. First, fusidic acid in Fucidin targets the bacterial elongation factor G, a mechanism that isn’t shared by many other topical agents, which gives it a low cross‑resistance profile in uncomplicated cases. However, the flip side is that repeated or sub‑therapeutic use can select for fusidic‑acid‑resistant Staphylococcus, especially in regions where it’s been over‑prescribed. Mupirocin, on the other hand, binds to isoleucyl‑tRNA synthetase, delivering a broader Gram‑positive coverage that includes most MRSA strains, which is why it’s the go‑to for suspected resistant infections. The downside? It’s noticeably pricier, and in the UK it’s still prescription‑only, so accessibility can be a hurdle.
When we look at bacitracin, we see a classic polypeptide that disrupts cell‑wall synthesis. It’s cheap, OTC, and works fine for superficial cuts, but its spectrum is narrow, and resistance can emerge quickly with chronic use, so it’s not the best choice for anything beyond a simple abrasion. Clindamycin offers anaerobic coverage and is useful for mixed infections, yet it carries a risk-albeit low-of inducing C. difficile when used systemically, though topical formulations mitigate this risk. Retapamulin, the newest kid on the block, belongs to the pleuromutilin class, providing a fresh mechanism of action that bypasses many existing resistance pathways, but its cost sits at the top end of the table and it’s still prescription‑only.
The triple‑antibiotic combo (neomycin‑bacitracin‑polymyxin B) brings a broad spectrum to the table, covering both Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative organisms. It’s OTC and cheap, but the neomycin component is a notorious allergen, leading to contact dermatitis in a notable subset of users. So, when you choose, consider infection type, resistance risk, cost, and prescription barriers. For uncomplicated impetigo or a minor cut, Fucidin or bacitracin are reasonable; for anything suspicious for MRSA, jump to mupirocin or retapamulin. Finally, always complete the prescribed duration – 5‑7 days for Fucidin, 5‑10 for mupirocin – to shut down any lingering microbes and keep resistance at bay.
October 10
Darlene Young
Quick tip: before you even pick a cream, double‑check the expiration date. An expired tube can lose potency, turning a solid treatment plan into a wasted effort. Also, keep the tube sealed tightly after each use to avoid contamination. Small habits like these make a big difference.
October 11
Kayla Rayburn
What a great rundown! It really helps to see the costs side‑by‑side, because money talks, and the price gaps are often the deciding factor, especially when you’re on a tight budget, and it’s reassuring to know there’s an OTC option that won’t break the bank, yet we also have to remember that the cheaper routes sometimes lack the full coverage we might need for tougher bugs, so weighing efficacy against expense is key, and that balance is exactly what this guide nails down.
October 11
Dina Mohamed
I get how overwhelming this can feel, especially when you’re dealing with an irritated skin and just want relief. The tables are helpful, but sometimes you just need a simple recommendation, like "if it’s a tiny cut, bacitracin works fine". Also, if you notice any rash that spreads beyond the treated spot, stop using it and see a doctor.
October 12
Kitty Lorentz
Hey all, just throwing in a quick thought – if you’re unsure whether you need a prescription or not, a quick chat with a local pharmacist can clear things up. They often have samples or can point you to the cheapest generic option, which is super helpful when you’re on a budget.
October 13
inas raman
Cost‑benefit analysis: bacitracin cheap but limited spectrum; mupirocin pricey but MRSA coverage.
October 14
Jenny Newell
From a formulary perspective, the choice hinges on bacterial susceptibility patterns; integrating pharmacoeconomic data ensures optimal resource allocation while preserving antimicrobial stewardship goals.
October 14
Kevin Zac
Looks like a solid cheat‑sheet – love the quick‑read tables, and the step‑by‑step application guide saves a lot of guesswork. Nice work!
October 15
Stephanie Pineda
I appreciate the clear layout; it makes picking the right ointment feel less like rocket science and more like a simple decision. Thanks for the effort.
October 16
Anne Snyder
While the overview is comprehensive, there are several typographical inconsistencies: "Fucidin" should be capitalized consistently, and the phrase "low but rising" would read better as "low, but rising". Additionally, the sentence "Apply only after the wound is cleaned" lacks a period at the end. Minor edits, but they improve readability.
October 16
Rebecca M
Honestly, the whole emphasis on prescription creams feels a bit overblown – most people just need something cheap and effective, not a fancy pharmacy trip. Why not just push the OTC options more?
October 17
Bianca Fernández Rodríguez
Prescription barriers are just a marketing ploy.
October 18
Patrick Culliton
Dear contributor, your extensive analysis of resistance mechanisms provides invaluable insight for clinicians and patients alike. The balanced yet assertive tone underscores the importance of adhering to treatment courses while offering practical guidance.
October 18
Andrea Smith
Tom, love how you pushed for sharing experiences – it really helps newbies navigate the prescription maze.
October 19
Gary O'Connor
Kayla, your coaching tip about expiration dates was spot‑on, though it’s a reminder of how easily we overlook the mundane details that can sabotage treatment.
October 20
Justin Stanus