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Sulfacetamide Ophthalmic

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(sul fa see' ta mide)

Brand name(s): AK-Sulf; Bleph-10; Cetamide; Isopto Cetamide; Ocusulf-10; Sodium Sulamyd; Sulf-10

Contents of this page:

Why is this medication prescribed?

Sulfacetamide stops the growth of bacteria that cause certain eye infections. It is used to treat eye infections and to prevent them after injuries.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Sulfacetamide comes as eyedrops and eye ointment. The eyedrops usually are applied every 2-3 hours during the day and less frequently at night; the ointment usually is applied four times a day and at bedtime. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use sulfacetamide exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

To use the eyedrops, follow these instructions:

To use the eye ointment, follow these instructions:

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using sulfacetamide eyedrops or eye ointment,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from sulfacetamide are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not let it freeze and do not use discolored eyedrops (yellowish brown to deep reddish brown). Throw away any unused part of your prescription. Do not save it to use for another infection. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the sulfacetamide, call your doctor.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003


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