The Use of Sodium Sulfacetamide in Dermatology
Sodium sulfacetamide is effective in the management of a variety of inflammatory facial dermatoses and often is used in combination with sulfur for a synergistic effect. Adverse effects from sodium sulfacetamide are rare and generally are limited to mild application-site reactions. This agent is contraindicated in any patient with known hypersensitivity to sulfonamides.
Practice Points
- Sodium sulfacetamide is a useful agent in the management of papulopustular rosacea, acne vulgaris, seborrheic dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis.
- Adverse effects are rare and generally are limited to dryness, erythema, pruritus, and discomfort.
Contraindications
Sodium sulfacetamide is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to sulfonamides, sulfur, or any other component of the preparation. It is a pregnancy category C drug, and pregnant women should only use sodium sulfacetamide if it is the only modality to treat the condition or the benefits outweigh the risks. Although there are no known reports of problems related to topical sodium sulfacetamide during pregnancy, the use of oral sulfonamides during pregnancy can increase the risk for neonatal jaundice.23 Likewise, caution should be exercised in prescribing this product to nursing women, as systemic sulfonamide antibacterials are well known to cause kernicterus in nursing neonates.1
Conclusion
The efficacy and safety of sodium sulfacetamide, used alone or in combination with sulfur, has been demonstrated in the treatment of rosacea, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis. Advances in formulation technology to decrease odor and irritation have allowed for more use of this product. Further studies will help elucidate the role that sodium sulfacetamide should play in the treatment of inflammatory dermatoses in comparison to other available products.
