Silver Sulfadiazine skin cream

What is this medicine?

SILVER SULFADIAZINE (SIL ver sul fa DYE a zeen) is a sulfonamide antibiotic. It is used on the skin for second or third degree burns. It helps to prevent or treat serious infection.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Clean the affected area and remove burned or dead skin. Wear a sterile glove to apply the cream. Apply the cream to cover the whole area evenly. Treated areas can be left uncovered, but a gauze dressing may be used. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• fever, sore throat, chills

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

• lower back pain

• pain or difficulty passing urine

• rash that appears or worsens following treatment, continued redness, swelling, burning, itching, stinging, or pain at the area of use

• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• brownish gray discoloration of skin, nails or clothing

• itching

What may interact with this medicine?

• collagenase, papain, or sutilains

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• anemia or other blood disorders

• glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• porphyria

• an unusual or allergic reaction to silver sulfadiazine, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your skin condition does not begin to get better within 3 to 5 days.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.