Sulpha

Indications

Sulphanilamide is an antibacterial powder applied to the skin to help prevent or treat infection in minor wounds, cuts, grazes, burns and skin ulcers. In Bangladesh it is mainly available as a dusting powder for wounds.

How It Works

Sulphanilamide is one of the oldest sulfonamide (sulfa) antibacterials. It blocks the way bacteria make folic acid, a vitamin they need to grow and multiply. This stops the growth of many common skin bacteria so the body's defences can clear the infection.

Dosage and Administration

Clean the wound gently with clean water or saline and pat it dry. Sprinkle a thin layer of powder over the affected area one to three times a day, or as directed on the label or by your doctor. A clean dressing may be placed over it. Do not use on large areas or deep wounds without medical advice. If the wound does not improve within a few days, see a doctor.

Interactions

When used on small areas very little reaches the blood, so interactions are unlikely. If used on large or raw areas, it may add to the effect of other sulfa medicines, Methotrexate, Warfarin or diabetes tablets such as sulfonylureas. Do not apply other powders or creams to the same area at the same time unless advised.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Sulphanilamide or other sulfa medicines (such as Co-trimoxazole).
• Large burns or very large open wounds, unless a doctor advises.
• Newborn babies, because of the risk of jaundice.

Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon. Some people develop itching, redness, burning or a rash where the powder is applied. Skin can become more sensitive to sunlight. Using it often can lead to skin allergy (sensitisation), which may make later use of sulfa medicines unsafe.

Get urgent medical help if you develop a spreading rash, blisters, peeling skin, sores in the mouth, fever, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing, or if the wound becomes very red, hot, swollen or smells bad.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use on small areas is unlikely to cause harm, but sulfa medicines should be avoided near the end of pregnancy and while breastfeeding a newborn or premature baby, because they may increase jaundice in the baby. Ask your doctor before use.

Precautions and Warnings

For external use only. Do not swallow and keep away from eyes. People with G6PD deficiency (an inherited red blood cell condition) should avoid use on large areas. Deep, dirty or animal bite wounds, and burns larger than the palm of the hand, need medical attention. Stop use if irritation occurs.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely with skin use. If a large amount is swallowed, especially by a child, it may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness or blood problems; seek medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Topical sulfonamide antibacterial.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.