SSD
Generic name:silver sulfadiazine topical [ SIL-ver-SUL-fa-DYE-a-zeen-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Silvadene, SSD, Thermazene
Drug class:Topical antibiotics
What is SSD?
Silver sulfadiazine is an antibiotic. It fights bacteria and yeast on the skin.
SSD (for the skin) is used to treat or prevent serious infection on areas of skin with second- or third-degree burns.
SSD may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
SSD may cause serious medical problems in a newborn if you use SSD during late pregnancy (close to your delivery date). This medicine should also not be used on premature babies or any child younger than 2 months old.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to silver sulfadiazine.
SSD may cause serious medical problems in a newborn if you use this medicine during late pregnancy (close to your delivery date). This medicine should also not be used on premature babies or any child younger than 2 months old.
To make sure SSD is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
kidney disease;
a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency; or
an allergy to sulfa drugs.
FDA pregnancy category B. SSD is not expected to harm an unborn baby. However, this medicine can cause serious medical problems in a newborn and should not be used during late pregnancy.
It is not known whether silver sulfadiazine topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
How should I use SSD?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use SSD in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Wash your hands before and after applying silver sulfadiazine cream.
The person applying silver sulfadiazine to burn wounds should wear sterile disposable gloves. Take care to keep the treatment area as clean as possible to prevent further infection.
Clean the area to be treated as directed by your doctor. Apply enough silver sulfadiazine to cover the affected area evenly. This medicine should be applied in a layer about one 16th (1/16) of an inch thick, or 1.6 millimeters.
If needed, apply more cream to replace any medicine that has come off on bandages, clothing, or bed linens....
