mafenide

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Mafenide is a topical antimicrobial medication that is used to treat burns and other wounds. It belongs to a class of medications called sulfonamides, which work by inhibiting the synthesis of folic acid, a molecule that is essential for bacterial growth and reproduction. 

The action of mafenide is to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the affected area and prevent infection. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, as well as some fungi and yeasts. 

The spectrum of mafenide refers to the range of microorganisms that it is effective against. Mafenide has a broad spectrum of activity and is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, as well as some fungi and yeasts. 

It is important to note that mafenide should be used in combination with other antimicrobial agents and dressings to promote wound healing and prevent infection. It should not be used as the sole treatment for burns or other wounds, and it should not be used in patients who are allergic to sulfonamides or have a history of severe allergic reactions to this class of medications. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency Not Defined  

Excoriation  

Blisters  

Burning sensation  

Application site reactions  

Diarrhea  

Bone marrow suppression  

Pain  

Hypersensitivity  

Edema  

Hyperventilation  

Anemia  

Hemolytic anemia  

Eosinophilia  

Porphyria  

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning  

There are no specific “black box” warnings for mafenide. However, as with any medication, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. 

Mafenide should not be used in patients who are allergic to sulfonamides or have a history of severe allergic reactions to this class of medications. It should also be used with caution in patients who have kidney or liver disease, as these conditions may affect the metabolism and elimination of the medication. 

It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for using mafenide and to report any adverse reactions or side effects to your healthcare provider immediately. If you experience severe allergic reactions or other serious side effects while taking mafenide, seek emergency medical attention. 

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Contraindication / Caution

Precautions and warnings that should be considered when using mafenide. These include: 

1. Allergic reactions: Mafenide should not be used in patients who are allergic to sulfonamides or have a history of severe allergic reactions to this class of medications. 2.
2. Skin irritation: Mafenide can cause irritation, burning, and redness at the site of application. If these symptoms persist or become severe, you should contact your healthcare provider. 3.
3. Renal impairment: Mafenide should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, as it may accumulate in the body and cause side effects. 4.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Mafenide should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women, as the safety of this medication in these populations has not been established. 5.
5. Hemolytic anaemia may result from G-6-PD deficiency. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy: C 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.    

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.     

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.     

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.     

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Adminstartion

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: mafenide 

Pronounced: MAF-en-ide  

Why do we use mafenide? 

mafenide is a Topical antibiotic. In patients with severe burns, it is used alone or in combination with other medications to help prevent and treat wound infections.