sulfacetamide topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

sulfacetamide topical functions by preventing bacteria from making folic acid, which is necessary for their development and reproduction. sulfacetamide topical has minor anti-inflammatory capabilities in addition to its antibacterial ones. It can aid in easing the inflammation, redness, and swelling brought on by several skin problems. 

The variety of germs that a medicine can successfully target is referred to as the spectrum of activity. sulfacetamide topical has been shown to be effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined  

1-10% 

Erythema 

Local irritation 

Stinging 

Itching 

Burning 

Edema 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

sulfacetamide topical drug does not have any black box warning. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• People who have a known hypersensitivity to or allergy to sulfacetamide or any other ingredient in the formulation should not take sulfacetamide topical. 
• sulfacetamide topical is mostly removed via the kidneys, so anyone with severe renal impairment should use cautiously. 

Caution: 

• Since sulfacetamide may irritate or hurt the eyes, it should never be used near them.  
• If unintentional eye contact occurs, it needs to be completely washed out with water. 
• sulfacetamide topical may result in skin rash, redness, or irritation in some people. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: C 

Lactation: Excretion 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 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

Pharmacology  

sulfacetamide topical works as an antibacterial agent by preventing bacteria from producing folic acid. It functions as inhibitor of the folate production pathway enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase.  

sulfacetamide topical inhibits the bacterial cell’s ability to synthesize nucleic acids and proteins by interfering with the formation of folic acid, which causes bacterial growth to be inhibited and ultimately results in cell death. 

Pharmacodynamics 

In topical preparations, sulfacetamide is generally employed as an antibacterial agent. It functions by preventing bacteria from synthesizing folic acid. For bacteria to thrive and reproduce, folic acid is necessary. 

sulfacetamide topical has minor anti-inflammatory effects in addition to its antibacterial capabilities. It can aid in easing the redness, swelling, and inflammation brought on by some skin diseases. 

Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium linked to acne, can be targeted and controlled by its antibacterial activity. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

When used topically, sulfacetamide topical can be absorbed via the skin. The precise rate of absorption may vary depending on the formulation, concentration, and properties of the skin, such as its integrity and thickness. 

Distribution 

sulfacetamide topical is dispersed throughout the body after absorption. It can reach systemic circulation, but the levels attained are typically low because of the skin’s insufficient ability to absorb it. 

Metabolism 

The liver is where sulfacetamide is metabolized predominantly. Acetylation and hydrolysis processes are involved in the process. N4-acetylsulfacetamide, an inactive metabolite, is produced when sulfacetamide is acetylated. sulfacetamide topical is hydrolyzed to produce the inactive metabolites p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and sulfanilamide.  

Elimination and excretion 

Renal excretion is the main route through which sulfacetamide topical, and its metabolites are eliminated. It is majorly eliminated unaltered in the urine. The kidneys are also used to remove the metabolites, such as N4-acetylsulfacetamide, PABA, and sulfanilamide. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

sulfacetamide topical medication is normally applied externally to the skin’s affected area. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: sulfacetamide topical 

Why do we use sulfacetamide topical? 

Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, sulfacetamide topical medication is used to treat various of dermatological diseases. For the treatment of acne, sulfacetamide topical is frequently used in conjunction with other medications.

By lowering Propionibacterium acnes bacterial growth on the skin, reducing inflammation, and stopping the development of new acne lesions, it aids in acne control.  

The skin disorder rosacea, which is characterised by facial flushing, tiny bumps, and pustules, is treated with this drug. It supports the management of seborrheic dermatitis-related bacterial growth and inflammation.