A prescription-strength acne medication, sulfacetamide sodium topical ointment combines an antibiotic agent that helps to strip the skin of the folic acid needed for bacteria to thrive. Widely known by the brand names Klaron® and Ovace®, this cream is one of many so-called sulfa drugs known for antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to treat dermatitis, dandruff and other types of infections.
Sulfacetamide sodium topical has a 10 percent solution of the active ingredient in purified water and other inactive suspension liquids and should not be applied to the skin until it is cleaned and dried. Just a thin layer should be applied and lightly rubbed in on infected areas. A soap is available to expedite this process as well as a variations called Plexion®, Avar® and Clenia®, which contain 10 percent sulfacetamide and five percent sulfur. Doctors also may prescribe an oral sulfacetamide.
Doctors typically recommend using sulfacetamide sodium topical at least twice a day for a week or longer to combat acne vulgaris. Once acne or other infected rashes have receded, treatment should continue a few times a week, and then a few times a month. Bottles of this drug typically come in about 4 oz (118 ml) bottles. This will help keep the acne from reappearing. Regular cleanings and dietary changes will also help thwart reappearances.
Using this acne treatment is not without potential side effects. Users could experience a fever, lethargy, rash, mouth sores and skin spots. Other symptoms like muscle or joint pain, nausea, appetite reduction, jaundice and stomach pain are possible as well. Anyone experiencing any of these side effects should notify a doctor immediately.
Sulfacetamide sodium topical should not make contact with the eyes, or enter the mouth or nose. It also should not be used when skin is sunburned or damaged; it can actually cause sunburn if used before sunbathing. Also, some kinds of skin infections will not improve but worsen if treated with this drug. Severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxic shock and swelling are possible, particularly for those allergic to sodium metabisulfite.
As of 2011, the US Food and Drug Administration has not cleared sulfacetamide sodium topical for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. The agency cannot confirm whether it will be relayed to unborn babies. In fact, children under 12 should not use this ointment.
