Fusidic acid

Fusidic acid is an antibiotic obtained by the fermentation of a certain fungus. It is mainly used locally for infections of the eyes and skin. It is mainly effective against gram-positive bacteria. In some cases, fusidic acid may also be given orally or as an infusion.

Fusidic acid is available by prescription and in most cases is given as a cream or ointment. In tablet form, it is available as the salt sodium fusidate.

Pharmacodynamics

Fusidic acid has a bacteriostatic effect, i.e. it only inhibits the growth of the pathogens. This relieves the immune system and can kill the bacteria themselves. The exact mechanism of action is based on the inhibition of protein biosynthesis of the bacteria. It binds to the elongation factor G in the ribosomes and thus prevents the elongation of the amino acid chain (basic building blocks of proteins).

Pharmacokinetics

Fusidic acid has a very high oral bioavailability of approximately 91%. It is 99% bound to plasma proteins in the blood and has a plasma half-life of 5-6 hours in adults. Fusidic acid is broken down in the cells of the liver and then excreted by the kidneys.

Side effectsWhen

used on the skin may cause local reactions such as burning, redness and itching. With systemic treatment, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, drowsiness and weight loss.

Bei der äusserlichen Behandlung sind lokale Reaktionen wie Brennen, Juckreiz, Stechen, Rötungen und allergische Reaktionen möglich. Zu den häufigsten möglichen unerwünschten Wirkungen der innerlichen Behandlung gehören Übelkeit, Durchfall, Unterbauchschmerzen, Erbrechen, Unwohlsein, Müdigkeit, Schwäche, Benommenheit und Gewichtsverlust.

Toxikologische Daten

LD50, Maus, Oral: 1500 mg/kg