What is Silvadene?
Antibiotics. Silver Sulfadiazine. It is used to fight bacteria and yeast. The skin is treated or prevented from becoming infected by using Silvadene for the skin. Silvadene can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Silvadene side effects
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, lip, face, tongue or throat swelling and/or redness then medical assistance must be sought immediately: hives. If these occur, seek immediate medical care. The risk of side effects when silver sulfadiazine is applied to your skin is very low. However, side effects may occur if you allow the medicine to enter your bloodstream.
Silvadene may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Fever; sore neck; mouth sores or swelling of the gums.
- Easy bruising or bleeding; purple or red pinpoints under the skin, nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum;
- If you notice a pale or yellowed complexion, dark urine, confusion, or weakness, then it is important to consult your doctor.
- Kidney problems: red or pink urine; little or no urinating; swelling; and rapid weight gain.
- Liver problems: nausea; itching; fatigue; dark urine or stools with clay-coloured particles; jaundice.
- Severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, and swelling of the face and tongue. Burning in the eyes. A red or purple rash spreads to other parts of your body, causing blisters and peeling.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
If you use Silvadene in late pregnancy (closer to your due date), it may cause serious medical problems for a newborn. The medicine is not recommended for premature babies or children younger than two months.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if you have an allergy to silver sulfadiazine. If you take Silvadene in late pregnancy, close to the due date of your baby's birth, it can cause serious health problems. The medicine shouldn't be given to premature babies or children younger than two months.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Silvadene will be safe for you:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Genetic enzyme deficiency known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency;
- An allergy to sulfa drugs.
FDA pregnancy class B Silvadene should not harm an unborn child. This medicine can cause serious medical issues in a newborn. It should not be taken during late pregnancy. Silver sulfadiazine is not known to pass into breast milk. It's also unknown if the topical silver toxicity could affect a nursing infant. This medicine should not be used while breastfeeding.
How to take Silvadene?
Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use Silvadene for longer than prescribed. Use Silvadene only as directed. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or use it for too long. Hands should be washed before and after using silver sulfadiazine. Use sterile disposable gloves when applying silver sulfadiazine to burns. Keep the area as clean as you can to prevent infection.
As directed by your physician, clean the affected area. Apply enough silver to cover the area evenly. The medicine should be applied as a thin layer, about 1/16 inch (1/16") or 1.6 millimetres thick. Apply more cream if necessary to replace any medicine that has been rubbed off on bandages or clothing. Reapply cream after bathing, water therapy, or any other treatment.
The cream should be applied one or two times per day. This medicine must always be applied to burn wounds. You can leave treated skin areas uncovered or use gauze bandages if your doctor so instructs. You may require frequent blood tests while using Silvadene. You may also be required to have your kidney function tested.
Do not stop taking the medicine before it is completely cleared. You may experience improvement in your symptoms before the infection has completely resolved. You may increase your chances of a second infection resistant to antibiotics if you skip doses. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you realise that you missed a dose, apply it. Silver sulfadiazine should be applied to your burns at all times.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of Silvadene are not considered dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Take it only as directed. Silvadene should only be used on the skin. Rinse your eyes, mouth, and nose with water if you accidentally get Silvadene in them.
Interaction with other drug
Silver sulfadiazine may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all healthcare providers of any medications you are currently taking or planning on taking in order to ensure a seamless experience.
