Silver Sulfadiazine
Silver Sulfadiazine is a topical antimicrobial medication commonly used to prevent and treat bacterial and fungal infections in burn wounds, skin grafts, and other skin injuries. It combines silver's antimicrobial properties with the antibacterial action of a sulfonamide antibiotic. This medication is applied directly to the skin as a cream and is particularly valuable in wound care settings.
Silver Sulfadiazine is a topical cream used to prevent and treat infections in burn wounds and skin injuries.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D06BA01
- RxNorm
- 9793
- Generic
- Silver Sulfadiazine
- Class
- atc-d06
- Brands
- SSD, Thermazene, Silvadene, Enrosite Silver, Enropro Silver, Baytril Otic
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Routes
- otic, topical
- Forms
- solution, suspension, cream
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Silver Sulfadiazine is primarily used to prevent and treat infections in second and third-degree burn wounds. It is also used for skin grafting procedures, leg ulcers, and other skin conditions where there is risk of bacterial or fungal infection.
Silver Sulfadiazine works by releasing silver ions that damage bacterial cell walls and interfere with their DNA, while the sulfonamide component inhibits folic acid synthesis in susceptible microorganisms. This dual mechanism provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against many bacteria and some fungi.
Silver Sulfadiazine should not be used by patients with sulfonamide allergies or in late pregnancy near term. It may cause skin discoloration, and prolonged use on large areas should be avoided in premature infants or newborns due to risk of kernicterus. Regular monitoring of blood counts may be needed during extended treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy