Silver Sulfadiazine Topical

By Kayla Hyland, DVM

What is silver sulfadiazine topical?

Silver sulfadiazine topical is an antimicrobial used to treat skin infections and burns in cats, dogs, and exotic pets.

It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet silver sulfadiazine topical?

Silver sulfadiazine topical comes in a topical cream form.

  • Cream is applied topically, directly to the skin.
  • Clean and dry the affected area as directed by your veterinarian before applying the medication. 
  • Consider wearing gloves when applying this medication and wash your hands after application. 
  • Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Do not allow your pet to lick or chew the affected area for at least 20–30 minutes after application.
  • Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication should start taking effect within 1–2 hours, though outward signs of improvement may take 1–2 days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from silver sulfadiazine topical?

Silver sulfadiazine topical may cause the following side effects:

  • mild redness or irritation at site of application

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

  • an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
  • dry eye syndrome

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This medication should NOT BE USED in animals:

  • allergic to any of the components

This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in animals:

  • allergic to sulfonamides
  • who need a large surface area treated

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

No known drug interactions have been reported for silver sulfadiazine topical. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

  • Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the type of condition present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
  • At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store silver sulfadiazine topical?

  • Store the medication in its original container at room temperature. 
  • Keep the cap tightly closed.
  • Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.

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