Plexion

Sulfacetamide Sodium Sulfur Plexion is a prescription topical medication used to treat acne and rosacea by preventing bacterial growth. It also removes the top layer of dead skin, which can kill acne-causing bacteria and unclog blocked pores. Read more about rosacea.
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How to use this information
This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of a medical provider. If you have any questions, go to your patient dashboard and request a callback for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Medication name

SODIUM SULFACETAMIDE/SULFUR - TOPICAL

(SOE-dee-um SUL-fa-SEET-a-mide/SUL-fur)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Plexion TS, Rosula

What you should know about Sodium Sulfacetamide/Sulfur
  • This medication is used to treat several skin problems, including acne, acne rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis.
  • Sodium Sulfacetamide/Sulfur works by stopping the growth of certain bacteria on the skin that can lead to acne and worsen these other skin conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sulfa antibiotics. 
  • Sulfur belongs to a class of drugs known as keratolytics, and works to help remove the top layer of dead skin. It may also help kill acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores.
  • This medication may also contain other ingredients—for example, other keratolytics such as Urea.
How to use Sodium Sulfacetamide/Sulfur
  • This medication is for use on the skin only.
  • Clean and dry the affected skin area and your hands. Some products need to be shaken before use. If so directed on the product label, shake the container well before each use. 
  • Apply a thin layer of the product to the areas of skin with acne, rosacea or seborrhea as directed by your medical provider, usually 1 to 3 times daily. 
  • Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your medical provider's directions. Wash your hands with soap and water after each use.
  • Do not apply this product to skin that is cracked, broken or raw—this may increase your risk of side effects.
  • Avoid getting this medication on your eyelids or lips, or in your eyes, nose or mouth. If you do get medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of water.
  • Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Do not apply large amounts of this medication, use it more often or use it for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects may increase.
  • Tell your medical provider if your condition does not improve after a few weeks. Stop using this medication and tell your medical provider right away if your condition worsens, or if you develop a rash or other serious side effects.
Potential side effects
  • Mild peeling of the top layer of skin is expected. Skin irritation, redness and scaling may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, stop using this medication and tell your medical provider or pharmacist promptly.
  • Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
  • In rare cases, Sodium Sulfacetamide/Sulfur products applied to the skin may be absorbed and cause serious side effects. Stop using this product and tell your medical provider right away if you experience any serious side effects, including:

    • Aching or swollen joints
    • Rash on nose and cheeks
    • Signs of infection, such as sore throat that doesn't go away
    • Fever
    • Signs of anemia, such as unusual tiredness or weakness, rapid breathing or fast heartbeat
    • Unusual bleeding or bruising
    • Signs of liver problems, such as nausea that doesn't stop, dark urine, yellowing eyes or skin, stomach or abdominal pain or vomiting
    • Mouth sores
  • A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

    • Rash
    • Itching or swelling, especially of the face/tongue/throat
    • Severe dizziness
    • Trouble breathing
  • This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Precautions to be aware of
  • Before using this product, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to Sodium Sulfacetamide/Sulfur; sulfa antibiotics such as Sulfamethoxazole or other ingredients listed on the product package or if you have any other allergies. 
  • This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Go to your patient dashboard and request a medical provider callback for more details.
  • Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history, especially of kidney problems.
  • Tell your medical provider if there are areas of skin near where this product will be applied that are cracked, broken or raw. Injured skin may absorb more of this product, and the chance of serious side effects may increase.
  • Before having surgery, tell your medical provider or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
  • During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when there is a clear need. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical provider.
  • It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your medical provider before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions
  • Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.
  • Keep a list of all the products you use—including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products—and share it with your medical provider and pharmacist. 
  • Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.  
  • Products containing silver—such as silver Sulfadiazine—may interact with this drug.
What to do in the event of an overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms—such as passing out or trouble breathing—call 911. If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Additional notes

Do not share this medication with others.

What to do if you miss a dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

How to store this medication
  • Store at room temperature. Protect from freezing. 
  • Keep the container cap tightly closed. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more information.
Treatment for
Generic Name
Sulfacetamide Sodium Sulfur
Brand
Plexion
Drug Class
Topical antibiotic

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