| Medication Name | Blephamide |
| Generic Name | Sulfacetamide Sodium and Prednisolone Acetate |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Prolonged use may result in glaucoma, with damage to the optic nerve, defects in visual acuity and fields of vision. Prolonged use may also suppress the host response and thus increase the hazard of secondary ocular infections. |
| Purpose | Treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory ocular conditions for which a corticosteroid is indicated and where superficial bacterial ocular infection or a risk of bacterial ocular infection exists. |
| Mechanism of Action | Prednisolone acetate (corticosteroid) reduces inflammation by suppressing migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability; Sulfacetamide sodium inhibits bacterial growth by blocking para-aminobenzoic acid utilization. |
| Dosage Forms | Ophthalmic suspension, Ophthalmic ointment |
| Available Strengths | Sulfacetamide Sodium 10% and Prednisolone Acetate 0.2% |
| Dosage Frequency | Usually, 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2-4 hours. The ointment is typically applied as a thin layer in the affected eye(s) 2-3 times daily. |
| Common Side Effects | Eye stinging or burning, temporary blurred vision, eye discomfort, foreign body sensation, increased tearing. |
| Serious Side Effects | Glaucoma, cataracts, secondary ocular infections (bacterial, fungal, viral), optic nerve damage, visual disturbances, allergic reactions. |
| Drug Interactions | Other topical ophthalmic medications, especially those containing steroids or sulfonamides. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist. |
| Important Notes | Do not use if you have a viral infection of the eye (e.g., herpes simplex keratitis). Prolonged use may increase the risk of glaucoma or cataracts. Consult your doctor if symptoms worsen or persist. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. |
| Missed Dose | Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. |
| Alternatives | Prednisolone acetate ophthalmic, Tobradex (tobramycin/dexamethasone), Erythromycin ophthalmic, Gentamicin ophthalmic |