The primary use of Sulfacetamide is in the management of bacterial eye infections. It is an antibiotic that belongs to the class of sulfonamides.
It can also be used in treating conjunctivitis and other superficial ocular bacterial infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Enterobacter species, Klebsiella species, and Proteus mirabilis.
Local irritation
Tingling discomfort
Burning sensation
Itching
Blurred vision
Sulfacetamide is a sulfonamide antibiotic.
It works by inhibiting an enzyme in bacteria called dihydropteroate synthase. This blocks the production of a compound called dihydrofolic acid, which is essential for the bacteria to grow and multiply.
By preventing the formation of dihydrofolic acid, it disrupts the synthesis of bacterial DNA and proteins, effectively arresting their growth. This helps in managing bacterial eye infections effectively.
MSc (Applied Genetics)
BMS, FMC, MD Resident
Sulfacetamide is available as an ophthalmic solution or eye drop and as an ointment, applied topically to the eyes.
Sulfacetamide is suitable for use in adults and children.
Sulfacetamide is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to sulfonamides. It is not suitable for patients who are allergic to any of the ingredients in its formulation.
Sulfacetamide may interact with oral sulfonylurea antidiabetic agents (e.g., glipizide, glyburide, and glimepiride).
In the case of an overdose of Sulfacetamide, patients may experience side effects such as irritation or burning sensation in the eyes. It is important to consult a doctor immediately if these symptoms persist or worsen.
If you forget to administer a dose of Sulfacetamide, it should be done as soon as possible. However, if it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose, just skip the missed one. Doubling up on doses to make up for a missed one should be avoided.
Most side effects of Sulfacetamide are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
In case of local irritation or burning sensation, it may help to close the eyes and rest them for a while after applying the drops or ointment.
If blurred vision is experienced, avoid driving or performing activities that require clear vision until it clears up.
Sulfacetamide may cause temporary blurred vision. If you experience this side effect, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear again.
The safety of Sulfacetamide use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. It is crucial to consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Patients with a history of hypersensitivity reactions to other sulfonamide medicines should exercise caution when using Sulfacetamide. Patients with any eye conditions other than the bacterial infections Sulfacetamide is indicated for should also consult their doctor before use.
Adopting good eye hygiene practices can help prevent reinfection or the spread of infection to the other eye. This includes washing hands thoroughly before applying the eye drops or ointment and avoiding touching the tip of the dropper or tube to any surface.
Avoid wearing contact lenses if you have symptoms of an eye infection. If you do wear contact lenses, remember to remove them before applying Sulfacetamide and wait at least 15 minutes after application before reinserting them.
Make sure to complete the full course of therapy as directed by your doctor, even if symptoms improve before the medicine is finished. This helps ensure that the infection is completely cleared and reduces the risk of it returning.
Frequently asked questions
No, Sulfacetamide is not effective against viral infections. It is an antibiotic and only works on bacterial infections.
Yes, you should remove your contact lenses before administering Sulfacetamide eye drops. You can reinsert them after at least 15 minutes.
Signs of an allergy to Sulfacetamide can include skin rash, hives (urticaria), or swelling of the face, lips or tongue (angioedema).
Sulfacetamide may cause temporary blurred vision after application. If this happens, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.
Sulfacetamide should be stored at room temperature (15°C to 25°C), protected from light and moisture. Any unused portion should be discarded 28 days after opening.
You should not share your eye drops with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you. Sharing can lead to contamination of the medication and spread of infection.
If you notice any change in colour or clarity of the eye drops, stop using them immediately and consult your doctor for advice.
Sulfacetamide in other salts
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