Fucibet is a combination topical preparation containing two active ingredients: betamethasone valerate — a potent synthetic corticosteroid — and fusidic acid — a topical antibiotic with specific activity against gram-positive bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. It is available as both a cream (Fucibet Cream) and a lipid cream (Fucibet Lipid Cream), with the lipid cream formulation providing enhanced moisturisation and being particularly suitable for dry or eczematous skin.

Fucibet is prescribed for inflammatory skin conditions — primarily eczema (atopic dermatitis) and dermatitis — that are complicated by, or at significant risk of, secondary bacterial infection, most commonly with Staphylococcus aureus. Rather than prescribing a topical steroid and a topical antibiotic separately, Fucibet provides both in a convenient single application.

Betamethasone valerate is a Group III (potent) corticosteroid in the UK classification — significantly more potent than over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% (Group IV, mild) and requiring careful prescription and clinical supervision. It should not be used on facial skin, genitalia, or skin folds without specialist advice, and its use should be limited to the minimum duration necessary.

Fucibet is a prescription-only medication in the UK. A licensed clinician must assess your skin condition and medical history before prescribing — which can now be done quickly and conveniently through a telehealth consultation.

Fucibet is prescribed for:

Betamethasone Valerate is a potent synthetic corticosteroid that exerts its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects by binding to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors and modulating gene transcription. In inflammatory skin conditions, it suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-1, IL-4, TNF-alpha), reduces mast cell activity, inhibits phospholipase A2 (reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis), and causes vasoconstriction of dermal blood vessels — collectively reducing redness, oedema, pruritus, and inflammatory skin thickening. As a Group III potent corticosteroid, betamethasone valerate is substantially more effective than mild corticosteroids for resistant or moderate-to-severe inflammatory dermatoses.

Fusidic Acid is a steroidal antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by interfering with elongation factor G (EF-G), preventing the translocation step in ribosomal protein production. It has a narrow but clinically important spectrum of activity, being highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus (including most MRSA strains, though resistance is increasing), Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus species. Given the central role of S. aureus in the exacerbation and infection of eczema, fusidic acid is a well-chosen antibiotic component for this combination.

The synergism of steroid-mediated reduction of inflammatory skin barrier disruption and antibiotic-mediated bacterial eradication addresses both the inflammatory and infective components of infected eczema simultaneously.

The correct dose depends on the type and severity of infection, age, weight, and kidney function. Always follow your clinician's instructions. The table below is for general reference only.

Apply a thin layer to the affected skin only — do not apply to surrounding unaffected skin. Rub in gently until absorbed.

Use the fingertip unit (FTU) system as a guide: one FTU (the amount squeezed from the tip of an adult index finger) covers an area approximately equal to two adult palms.

Wash hands before and after application unless the hands themselves are being treated.

Do not use for longer than 2 weeks without clinical reassessment. Prolonged use of a potent topical corticosteroid causes skin thinning (atrophy), striae, and systemic absorption, while prolonged topical antibiotic use increases the risk of fusidic acid resistance developing. If symptoms have not improved within 2 weeks, seek clinical review.

Avoid the face, genitalia, and skin folds unless specifically directed by your clinician. Potent corticosteroids cause more rapid skin thinning in these areas, and systemic absorption is significantly higher.

Do not apply under occlusion (e.g. bandages or nappies/diapers) without medical advice — occlusion dramatically increases corticosteroid absorption and the risk of systemic side effects.

Fucibet Lipid Cream is more moisturising than standard Fucibet Cream and is preferred for dry or very eczematous skin. Your clinician will specify which formulation is appropriate.

Local side effects are the primary concern with topical Fucibet. Systemic side effects are rare at standard doses and durations but can occur with excessive use, prolonged courses, or application to large areas.

Fucibet is a topical preparation. Clinically significant systemic drug interactions are unlikely at standard doses and durations due to minimal systemic absorption. However:

Getting advice no longer means sitting in a waiting room. Through The GP Service, you can consult with a licensed clinician in minutes — from home, on your lunch break, or wherever works for you. If treatment is clinically appropriate, your clinician can issue a prescription during the consultation. A consultation does not guarantee a prescription.