Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
General Medication Fact Sheet for Silvadene
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Silvadene |
| Generic Name | Silver Sulfadiazine |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Sulfonamide allergy; caution in G6PD deficiency. |
| Purpose | Topical antibacterial cream used to prevent and treat infections in severe burns. |
| Mechanism of Action | Silver sulfadiazine releases silver slowly, which is toxic to bacteria. It acts on the cell membrane and cell wall to produce its bactericidal effects on a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and is effective against yeast. |
| Dosage Forms | Topical Cream |
| Available Strengths | 1% |
| Dosage Frequency | Apply 1-2 times daily, or as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Burning, itching, pain, or skin rash at the application site. |
| Serious Side Effects | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), kidney problems, blood disorders. |
| Drug Interactions | Topical enzymes (e.g., collagenase), certain topical medications. |
| Important Notes | Use sterile technique when applying; monitor for signs of infection; avoid prolonged use on large areas. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. |
| Missed Dose | Apply as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. |
| Alternatives | Mafenide (Sulfamylon), Bacitracin, Neomycin, Polymyxin B |
Silvadene Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mafenide (Sulfamylon) | Interferes with bacterial cellular metabolic systems. | Alternative topical antibacterial for burn wounds. |
| Bacitracin | Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis. | Used for minor burns and skin infections. |
| Neomycin | Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. | Often combined with other antibiotics for broader coverage. |
| Polymyxin B | Disrupts bacterial cell membranes. | Effective against gram-negative bacteria. |
Silvadene Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Burning | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) |
| Itching | Kidney problems |
| Pain | Blood disorders (leukopenia) |
| Skin rash | Severe dizziness |
| Skin discoloration | Trouble breathing |
Silvadene Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burn Wound Infection Prevention | Apply a 1/16-inch layer | Apply a 1/16-inch layer once or twice daily | Apply to clean, debrided wound; cover with sterile dressing. |
| Burn Wound Infection Treatment | Apply a 1/16-inch layer | Apply a 1/16-inch layer once or twice daily | Apply to clean, debrided wound; cover with sterile dressing. |
