sulfacetamide sodium

Sulfacetamide sodium is a synthetic sulfonamide antibiotic primarily used to treat bacterial infections of the skin and eyes, such as acne vulgaris, seborrheic dermatitis, blepharitis, and conjunctivitis. It works by competitively inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase in bacteria, thereby blocking the synthesis of folic acid—a component essential for bacterial growth and replication. This results in bacteriostatic (growth-inhibiting) effects against susceptible Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, including Streptococci, Staphylococci, E. coli, and others. Sulfacetamide sodium is available in multiple formulations (e.g., solution, lotion, cream, ophthalmic drops) and is often combined with sulfur for dermatologic use to enhance efficacy in conditions like acne and rosacea.

Brand names

KlaronOvacePlexionCleniaPrascionAvarSumaxin

Other names

sodium sulfacetamidesulfacetamide sodium 10%sulfacetamide (ophthalmic)sulfacetamide topical