Sulphacid

Sulphacid Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Sulphacid is a brand name. Its generic name is Sulfacetamide.

Sulphacid

Sulphacid is an antibiotic belonging to the sulfonamide group. It is bacteriostatic, which means it interferes with the growth of bacteria instead of killing them outright. It is used for an array of skin infections, including acne and skin inflammation related to allergies or contact dermatitis.

Uses For

Sulphacid is used in the topical treatment of bacterial infections, such as:

  • Acne vulgaris
  • Rhinophyma
  • Demodicosis
  • Kerion
  • Impetigo
  • Seborrheic dermatitis

Mechanism of Action

Sulphacid works by inhibiting bacterial growth. It does this by blocking the production of folate as a byproduct of its metabolism, which lawfully kills the bacteria.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

How quickly sulfacetamide works depends on activity and the severity of the infection. Generally, results can be expected within 48 to 72 hours after beginning treatment.

Absorption

Sulphacid is rapidly and completely absorbed from topical applications, reaching fairly high concentrations in the epidermis, dermis and sebaceous glands.

Route of Elimination

Sulphacid is metabolized in the liver to sulfamethazine and 5-aminosulfosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Both compounds are eliminated in the urine.

Dosage

Sulphacid is available as an ointment and solution (10%) for topical treatments. Ages 12 years and up should use 10% solution by applying it directly to the affected area 1-2 time a day. For ages 2-12, the dosage of 10% solution should not exceed 2 grams each day, again, 1-2 times a day.

Administration

Sulphacid is applied topically directly to the affected area. It can be applied twice a day up to a maximum of two grams each day.

Side Effects

Sulphacid can cause a few common side effects, including burning, itching, irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling. In more severe cases, it can also lead to hyperpigmentation, contact dermatitis, sensitization, rosacea-like eruptions, and more serious forms of skin infection.

Toxicity

Sulphacid is usually well tolerated but can be toxic if it is used to excess. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, drowsiness, rashes, and difficulty breathing.

Precaution

Patients with allergies to sulfonamides should not use sulfacetamide. Additionally, it should not be used on severely burned areas or on areas with large amounts of hair because it can lead to burning and irritation. In rare cases, it can lead to anaphylaxis so medical attention should be sought if there is any sign of allergy.

Interaction

Sulphacid can interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking before starting treatment.

Disease Interaction

Sulphacid can interact with a variety of underlying health conditions, so it is important to inform your doctor of a preexistent medical conditions before beginning treatment.

Drug Interaction

Sulphacid can interact with a variety of medications, supplement, and herbal products. It is recommended to inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking, including non-prescription medications.

Food Interactions

Sulphacid does not interact with food, however it is important to check with your doctor before taking any supplement or other product.

Pregnancy Use

Sulphacid should not be used by pregnant women unless instructed otherwise by a physician as it has the potential to cause harm to a fetus.

Lactation Use

Sulphacid should not be used by breastfeeding women as it has the potential to be passed in breast milk.

Acute Overdose

In the case of an acute overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately and monitored for symptoms of toxicity. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, drowsiness, rashes, and difficulty breathing.

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to sulfonamides or any component, presence of facial infection or forming abscess. Also, should not be used on severe burns or on areas with a large amount of hair.

Use Direction

Sulphacid should be applied topically directly to the affected area. Use only as directed and do not use more than two grams daily.

Storage Condition

Store Sulphacid at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

Unknown

Half Life

Unknown

Clearance

Unknown

Here you find in details version of Sulphacid

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Sulphacid

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What is Sulphacid?

Sulphacid is an antibacterial sulfonamide antibiotic. It is commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections.

How does Sulphacid work?

Sulphacid works by interfering with the production of essential proteins which are needed by bacteria in order to survive, thus killing them.

Who should not take Sulphacid?

Sulphacid should not be taken by those who are allergic to sulfa drugs, or by those who have kidney disease.

What are the side effects of Sulphacid?

Possible side effects of Sulphacid include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, skin rash, hives, dizziness, and headache.

What are some drug interactions of Sulphacid ?

Sulphacid may interact with other medications such as warfarin, methotrexate, probenecid, and some antibiotics. It is important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before taking Sulphacid.

What are the possible effects of an overdose of Sulphacid?

Possible effects of an overdose of Sulphacid include seizures, dehydration, damage to kidneys, and difficulty breathing. If you think you have taken too much Sulphacid, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately.

Is Sulphacid safe to use during pregnancy?

Sulphacid is in pregnancy category B, meaning it has not been shown to cause harm to the baby in animal or human studies. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Can I take Sulphacid with alcohol?

It is not recommended to take Sulphacid with alcohol, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Can I use Sulphacid to treat bacterial infections in other parts of the body?

Sulphacid is not typically used to treat infections in other parts of the body, since it is generally prescribed for use in the eye only. However, it is important to check with your doctor before using Sulphacid for anything other than what it has been specifically prescribed for.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Sulphacid?

If you miss a dose of Sulphacid, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.

Can children take Sulphacid?

Sulphacid is generally not prescribed for children because it has not been studied in this population. It is important to consult your doctor before giving Sulphacid to a child.

What is the recommended dosage of Sulphacid?

The recommended dosage of Sulphacid is typically 1% solution applied to the affected eye 2-4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

How long should I take Sulphacid?

Most courses of treatment with Sulphacid are for no more than a few days. However, it is important to take as many doses as prescribed for complete effectiveness. If you miss a dose or feel that your symptoms are not improving, consult your doctor.

Can I use regular eye drops while using Sulphacid?

No, it is not recommended to use regular eye drops while taking Sulphacid. Consult your doctor before using any other eye medications while taking Sulphacid.

Can I take other medications while using Sulphacid?

It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, even over-the-counter medications. Certain medications may interact with Sulphacid and cause unwanted side effects.

Will Sulphacid treat a stye?

Yes, Sulphacid is commonly used to treat bacterial infections including styes.

Is Sulphacid available over-the-counter?

No, Sulphacid is only available with a prescription from your doctor.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat a viral eye infection?

No, Sulphacid is not effective in treating viral eye infections. Consult your doctor if you think you may have a viral eye infection.

Should I take Sulphacid with food?

No, since Sulphacid is an eye drop, it does not need to be taken with food or any other medication.

How long does it take for Sulphacid to work?

It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for Sulphacid to work. However, it is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Sulphacid?

No, it is not recommended to wear contact lenses while using Sulphacid. Wait until finish the course of treatment and, if prescribed, switch to soft lenses instead of hard lenses.

Is Sulphacid a steroid?

No, Sulphacid is not a steroid. It is an antibacterial sulfonamide antibiotic.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis?

Yes, Sulphacid is effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis.

If I stop taking Sulphacid, will my infection come back?

Yes, it is important to take all of the medication prescribed by your doctor for the full duration of treatment in order to ensure the infection does not come back.

Does Sulphacid have any effect on the liver?

Sulphacid has been known to cause liver damage in rare cases. It is important to tell your doctor if you have pre-existing liver disease before taking Sulphacid.

Is Sulphacid effective in treating corneal ulcers?

Yes, Sulphacid is effective in treating corneal ulcers.

Are there any alternatives to Sulphacid?

Yes, other antibiotics such as bacitracin or gentamicin may be prescribed instead of Sulphacid, depending on your infection. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat pink eye?

Yes, Sulphacid is an effective treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat all types of eye infections?

No, Sulphacid is only effective in treating certain bacterial eye infections such as pink eye or styes. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Is Sulphacid safe to use with contact lenses?

It is not recommended to use Sulphacid with contact lenses. Remove lenses before applying the eye drops, and then wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contacts back in.

What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Sulphacid?

It is important to tell your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects while taking Sulphacid. Do not stop taking the medication unless instructed by your doctor.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat glaucoma?

No, Sulphacid is not effective in treating glaucoma.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat a staph infection of the eye?

Yes, Sulphacid is effective in treating certain infections caused by Staphylococcus bacteria.

Should I take Sulphacid with food or on an empty stomach?

Since Sulphacid is an eye drop, it does not need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat blepharitis?

Yes, Sulphacid is effective in treating infections of the eyelid caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus including blepharitis.

Can I use Sulphacid if I have an allergy to sulfa drugs?

No, Sulphacid contains sulfa drugs and may cause an allergic reaction. Do not use this medication if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs.

Can Sulphacid cause blurred vision?

Yes, blurred vision is a possible side effect of Sulphacid. Contact your doctor if you experience this side effect while taking Sulphacid.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat an eye infection that has spread to other parts of the body?

No, Sulphacid is not effective in treating infections that have spread to other parts of the body. Consult your doctor if you think the infection has spread.

What should I do if I get Sulphacid in my mouth or nose?

If you get Sulphacid in your mouth or nose, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention immediately.

What should I do if my symptoms do not improve while taking Sulphacid?

It is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve after taking Sulphacid, consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Can Sulphacid be used to treat fungal eye infections?

No, Sulphacid is not effective in treating fungal eye infections. Consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Does Sulphacid cause dry eyes?

Yes, dry eyes is a possible side effect of Sulphacid. Contact your doctor if you experience dry eyes while taking Sulphacid.