Sulfacetamide

INDICATIONS: This product is indicated for use in the topical control of acne vulgaris, acne rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Sodium sulfacetamide exerts a bacteriostatic effect against sulfonamide sensitive Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms commonly isolated from secondary cutaneous pyogenic infections. It acts by restricting the synthesis of folic acid required by bacteria for growth, by its competition with para-aminobenzoic acid. There is no clinical data available on the degree and rate of systemic absorption of this product when applied to the skin or scalp. However, significant absorption of sodium sulfacetamide through the skin has been reported. The following in vitro data is available but the clinical significance is unknown. Organisms that show susceptibility to sodium sulfacetamide are: Streptococci, Staphylococci, E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas pyocyanea, Salmonella species, Proteus vulgaris, Nocardia and Actinomyces. The exact mode of action of sulfur in the treatment of acne is unknown, but it has been reported that it inhibits the growth of Propionibacterium acnes and the formation of free fatty acids.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Cleanse affected areas. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas with light massaging, 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by a physician.

ADVERSE REACTIONS: Reports of irritation and hypersensitivity to sodium sulfacetamide are uncommon. The following adverse reactions, reported after administration of sterile ophthalmic sodium sulfacetamide, are noteworthy: instances of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and instances of local hypersensitivity which progressed to a syndrome resembling systemic lupus erythematosus; in one case a fatal outcome was reported (see WARNINGS).

WARNINGS: Sulfonamides are known to cause Stevens-Johnson syndrome in hypersensitive individuals. Stevens-Johnson syndrome also has been reported following the use of sodium sulfacetamide topically. Cases of drug-induced systemic lupus erythematosus from topical sulfacetamide also have been reported. In one of these cases, there was a fatal outcome. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: This product is contraindicated in persons with known or suspected hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of the product. This product is not to be used by patients with kidney disease.

OVERDOSAGE: The oral LD 50 of sulfacetamide in mice is 16.5 g/kg. In the event of overdosage, emergency treatment should be started immediately. Manifestations: Overdosage may cause nausea and vomiting. Large oral overdosage may cause hematuria, crystalluria and renal shutdown due to the precipitation of sulfa crystals in the renal tubules and the urinary tract. For treatment, contact your local Poison Control Center or your doctor.