Sulfacetamide Sodium

Sulfacetamide Sodium Sulfur Sulfacetamide sodium-sulfur is a topical antibiotic used to treat rosacea. While the antibiotic Sulfacetamide can prevent bacterial growth, sulfur causes the skin to dry, which helps get rid of dead skin. Generally, improvements in skin may begin to show after 12 weeks. 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

SULFACETAMIDE/SULFUR CREAM - TOPICAL

(sull-fuh-SEET-uh-mide/SULL-fur)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Avar, Plexion SCT

What you should know about Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream
  • This medication is used to treat acne and other skin conditions such as rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis. It helps to relieve the symptoms of skin irritation caused by these conditions. 
  • This product contains a combination of two drugs—Sulfacetamide and Sulfur. Both Sulfacetamide and Sulfur stop the growth of bacteria on the skin’s surface. 
  • Sulfur has a drying effect on the skin that helps it shed old cells.
How to use Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream
  • This medication is for use on the skin only.
  • The directions for use of this product vary depending on the brand that you are prescribed. Follow the directions provided by your medical provider or pharmacist.
  • Avoid getting any of this medication in the eyes or inside the nose or mouth.
  • Inform your medical provider if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Potential side effects
  • Mild redness and dry skin may occur. If either of these effects lasts or gets worse, 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.
  • Stop using this medication and tell your medical provider right away if you have any serious side effects, including skin irritation or scaling of the skin.
  • You may be at increased risk for side effects if this medication is used on raw or broken skin. Go to your patient dashboard and request a medical provider callback for more details.
  • 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
    • Signs of infection, such as persistent sore throat or fever
    • Unusual weakness
    • Easy bleeding or bruising
    • Yellowing eyes or skin
  • 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 Sulfacetamide/Sulfur Cream, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to either of these drugs, sulfa medications 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 or cracked skin or open wounds, especially on the face or hands.
  • 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 not known whether the drugs in this product pass into breast milk when applied to the skin. 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.
  • Skin products containing silver, such as silver Sulfadiazine, may interact with this treatment.
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. 
  • 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
Sulfacetamide-Sodium-Sulfur
Drug Class
Topical antibiotic

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