Fortison Cream

Indications

Fortison is prescribed for various skin conditions where bacterial infections are either present or suspected. These include:

• Primary irritant dermatitis
• Contact allergic dermatitis
• Eczema (atopic, infantile, discoid, stasis)
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Please use this medication as directed by a registered healthcare professional.

Pharmacology

The Fortison cream combines 2% Fusidic Acid BP with 1% Hydrocortisone Acetate BP, delivering strong antibacterial properties alongside anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic effects.

When applied to the skin, Fusidic Acid effectively targets bacteria such as Staphylococci, Streptococci, Corynebacteria, Neisseria, and certain Clostridia and Bacteroides. As a potent antimicrobial agent, it inhibits protein synthesis in bacteria by interfering with the ribosome and guanosine diphosphate elongation factor G-complex. This disruption prevents the binding of aminoacyl t-RNA, ultimately halting the transfer of amino acids to the growing polypeptide chain.

Hydrocortisone, the primary naturally occurring glucocorticosteroid in humans, primarily reduces the skin’s inflammatory response to injury. It also exhibits immunosuppressive and anti-mitotic properties.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults: Apply the cream three times daily, gently massaging it into the affected areas for a duration of two weeks. If symptoms improve, consider a shorter treatment course.
• Children: Fortison is not recommended for children under three years of age. Please use this medication as directed by a registered healthcare professional.

Interactions

While systemic absorption of Fusidic Acid may potentially inhibit the metabolism of drugs that undergo extensive liver biotransformation, no significant evidence supports this claim. Additionally, there are no known hazardous interactions with topical Hydrocortisone Acetate.

Contraindications

Fortison should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to Fusidic Acid, Hydrocortisone Acetate, or any of the cream’s ingredients. It is also contraindicated for bacterial infections caused by non-susceptible organisms, fungal infections, skin tuberculosis, syphilitic infections, chickenpox, post-vaccination skin eruptions, and general viral skin diseases.

Side Effects

Fusidic Acid may cause mild local irritation, although this typically does not necessitate discontinuation of treatment. Rare hypersensitivity reactions have been reported. Common local side effects may include:

• Dryness
• Itching
• Burning
• Local irritation
• Striae (stretch marks)
• Skin atrophy
• Subcutaneous tissue atrophy
• Telangiectasia (visible blood vessels)
• Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Secondary infections

When applied to the face, the use of this cream may lead to acne rosacea or perioral dermatitis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

The safety of Fusidic Acid and Hydrocortisone Acetate during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been thoroughly established. The benefits and potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant should be carefully considered before use during these periods.

Precautions & Warnings

Avoid using Fusidic Acid and Hydrocortisone Acetate near the eyes due to the risk of conjunctival irritation. Prolonged use, particularly under occlusive dressings, on large areas, or on sensitive regions such as the face, scalp, axillae, and scrotum, may lead to significant absorption, potentially resulting in adrenal suppression and other systemic effects.

Use in Special Populations

Use in children: Clinical trials involving Fusidic Acid and Hydrocortisone Acetate have not shown an increased incidence of adverse effects in children aged three years and older. There is insufficient data regarding the safety and efficacy of Fortison in children under three years old.

Therapeutic Class

Hydrocortisone & Combined Preparations

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.