Silvadene

Silvadene is a sulfonamide drug used to treat second or third degree burns, particularly in preventing bacterial infection. A generic brand is known as Silver Sulfadiazine. Silvadene cream should be applied to the burned area for as long as it takes the skin to heal. Silvadene not only prevents growth of bacteria but also yeast, and may be used for other purposes besides burn treatment, such as the use of Silvadene for treatment of acne. Silvadene ointment is not very soluble and may not effectively treat very large burn wounds.

How To Use Silvadene Cream

A doctor will prescribe Silvadene ointment and the dosage, the application of the cream, may vary with the degree of burns. Generally, persons are advised to wash their hands before and after the application, using a sterile glove if possible. In order for the drug to be effective, the burned area must be covered constantly, which may mean reapplying the cream every few hours, for the entire healing process. Doctors will advise patients to not stop applying the cream even if the condition improves. Silvadene does not treat viral infections, and dosage should not be missed in case the bacteria becomes resistant against Silvadene.

If you are changing dressing for a wound and also using Silvadene, remember to use two pairs of gloves for removal and reapplication. Clean the wound and then remove all of the residue before applying more. Application of Silvadene with dressing changes can be done using your protected hands, a sponge or Q-tip.

Side Effects Of Silvadene

Possible mild side effects of the drug include burning and redness in the skin, rash, discoloration, itching and hives. There are also a few severe allergic reactions which may require special treatment. These include: hives, difficulty in breathing, tightness in the chest , face swelling or difficulty in urinating. Some doctors may also advise against taking Silvadene if a patient is pregnant, allergic to certain ingredients in the drug or taking other medications.

There have been some cases of transient Leukopenia found in patients that were taking Silvadene (or the generic brand), which is a white blood cells depression. Overuse of Silvadene can lead to an infection, and Silvadene poisoning is possible if the substance is swallowed. If you experience any adverse reactions immediately contact your doctor.

Some of the Silvadene alternatives on the market include Xeroform, which is a yellow gauze dressing, and Silverlon. In comparing Silvadene vs Silverlon, Silverlon is arguably more effective and much cheaper. To find cheap Silvadene cream online visit websites such as CheapBrandMedicine.com and CanadaDrugsOnline.com.