Novacet

Novacet is a topical prescription medication containing a combination of sulfacetamide sodium (10%) and sulfur (5%). It is indicated for the treatment of dermatological conditions including acne vulgaris, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. Sulfacetamide sodium is a sulfonamide antibiotic that exerts bacteriostatic activity by competitively inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase, which is essential for bacterial folic acid synthesis. Sulfur acts as a keratolytic agent, promoting the shedding of dead skin cells and providing mild antiseptic and antifungal properties. Novacet is available in various topical forms, including lotions and cleansers, though it belongs to a class of older drugs that have not been formally evaluated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness under modern standards, often categorized under the Drug Efficacy Study Implementation (DESI) program.

Brand names

Novacet

Other names

sulfacetamide sodium + sulfur