sulfacetamide sodium topical

What is the most important information I should know about sulfacetamide sodium topical?

What is sulfacetamide sodium topical?

Sulfacetamide sodium is an antibiotic that fights bacteria on the skin.

Sulfacetamide sodium topical (for the skin) is used to treat acne, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis (red, flaking skin rash), and certain skin infections.

Sulfacetamide sodium topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using sulfacetamide sodium topical?

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• lupus;
• asthma; or
• a sulfite allergy.

How should I use sulfacetamide sodium topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Make sure the treatment area is clean and dry before using sulfacetamide sodium topical cream, gel, lotion, or solution. Apply the medicine in a thin layer and rub in gently.

To use sulfacetamide sodium soap, wet the skin and apply enough of the medicine to work into a lather. Massage the lather on the skin gently and then rinse thoroughly with plain water. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.

Apply the foam to dry hair when treating your scalp. Massage gently into the scalp until all the foam dissolves. Allow the foam to dry completely on the treated area.

If you are using this medicine on your scalp, wash your hair with a non-medicated shampoo at least once per week during treatment.

Sulfacetamide sodium topical is usually applied 2 times per day for 8 to 10 days. Space your doses evenly by applying the medicine at the same times each day.

You may need to keep using the medicine once or twice per week, or once every other week. Follow your doctor's instructions. Call your doctor if your condition comes back after you stop using sulfacetamide sodium topical.

Store the foam canister upright and keep away from open flame or high heat, such as in a car on a hot day. The canister may explode if it gets too hot. Do not puncture or burn an empty canister.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, blood in your urine, or urinating less than usual.

What should I avoid while using sulfacetamide sodium topical?

Avoid getting this medicine on your clothing. Sulfacetamide sodium topical may leave a slight yellow color on light fabrics.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with sulfacetamide sodium topical unless your doctor tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of sulfacetamide sodium topical?

• the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild;
• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
• new or worsening skin infection;
• liver problems --nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• lupus-like syndrome --joint pain or swelling with fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, chest pain, vomiting, unusual thoughts or behavior, and patchy skin color; or
• severe skin reaction --fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.

Common side effects may include:

• mild swelling, itching, or redness of treated skin;
• dry skin; or
• yellow discoloration of treated skin (may be a sign that you have applied too much of the medicine).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect sulfacetamide sodium topical?

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene, Thermazene, and others).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with sulfacetamide sodium topical. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about sulfacetamide sodium topical.