Brand Names: Klaron, Sebizon
Sodium sulfacetamide is a "sulfonamide", a sulfur-based drug which was widely used as an anti-bacterial in the days before the discovery of antibiotics. Penicillin, tetracycline and other antibiotics have to a great degree eclipsed these sulfa-based drugs. Today, sodium sulfacetamide and other sulfa-based drugs are enjoying a renaissance as they can be prescribed without concerns of bacteria developing antibiotic resistance.
Sodium sulfacetamide is a topical antibiotic that is used to eliminate P. acnes on the skin. Klaron and/or Sebizon are sometimes prescribed to fight dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis as well.
Apply sodium sulfacetamide to clean, dry skin. Wash your hands before applying the lotion. Rub a thin film of lotion to the affected area of the skin. Do not cover the skin after applying the lotion. Don't apply any other products to the skin unless your doctor specifically says it's okay to do so.
People have died due to severe reactions to sulfonamides, although extremely rarely. Side effects in clinical trials were experienced by less than 2% of patients, and include irritation, stinging and burning. Sodium sulfacetamide is harmful to unborn children, so should never be used by a pregnant woman, or a woman likely to become pregnant.
Allergy to sulfa drugs is not uncommon. Anyone allergic to sulfa drugs should never use sodium sulfacetamide.
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