Sodium sulfacetamide

Sodium Sulfacetamide is a sulfonamide antibiotic primarily used in the treatment of dermatological conditions. It is available in various forms, including topical creams, lotions, and washes, and is often combined with sulfur in dermatological products.

Chemistry

Sodium sulfacetamide is a white, crystalline powder with the chemical formula C8H9N2NaO3S. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. The compound is a sodium salt of sulfanilamide, a sulfonamide antibiotic.

Pharmacology

Sodium sulfacetamide exhibits its antibacterial activity by inhibiting the growth of bacteria by interfering with their folic acid synthesis, which is necessary for the production of bacterial DNA, RNA, and proteins. It is effective against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes, which is implicated in acne.

Clinical Use

Sodium sulfacetamide is primarily used in the treatment of acne and seborrheic dermatitis. It may also be used for other skin conditions as determined by a healthcare provider. When combined with sulfur, it can also help remove dead skin cells and reduce inflammation.

Side Effects

Common side effects of sodium sulfacetamide include skin irritation, redness, and dryness. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions.

Precautions

Patients who are allergic to sulfonamides should not use products containing sodium sulfacetamide. It should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease due to the risk of sulfonamide toxicity.

See Also

• Sulfonamides
• Acne
• Seborrheic dermatitis