Locabiotal (fusafungine, local antibiotic)

Note: Locabiotal and other fusafungine-containing medicines have been withdrawn from the market since 2016. The information provided here is purely for educational purposes.

Uses

What is Locabiotal used for?

It is a local antibiotic with anti-inflammatory properties for treating infections of the nose and throat.

How should I take Locabiotal ?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

Activate the internal pump by pressing down on the canister 4 times.

For oromucosal use: Remove the nasal adaptor and replace it with the white oral adaptor. Place your mouth over the adaptor and seal your lips around it. Press down firmly once while breathing normally.

For nasal use: Place the yellow or transparent adaptor into the nostril and press down on the canister while breathing normally. Repeat as necessary.

How do I store Locabiotal?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Locabiotal?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Locabiotal?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Sneezing
• Unpleasant taste
• Watery eyes
• Dry throat and nose
• Cough
• Nausea
• Pricking sensation
• Anaphylaxis

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Locabiotal?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

Does food or alcohol interact with Locabiotal?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Locabiotal?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Inhale 4 puffs through the mouth and 2 puffs in each nostril 4 times a day.

What is the dose for a child?

Children 30 months and older: Administer 2 puffs in the mouth and 1 puff in each nostril 4 times a day.

How is Locabiotal available?

Locabiotal is no longer available on the market. It was previously available as a nasal and oromucosal spray solution.

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.