Optacid

Optacid Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Optacid is a brand name. Its generic name is Sulfacetamide.

Optacid

Optacid is an antibiotic belonging to the sulfonamide group. It is bacteriostatic, which means it interferes with the growth of bacteria instead of killing them outright. It is used for an array of skin infections, including acne and skin inflammation related to allergies or contact dermatitis.

Uses For

Optacid is used in the topical treatment of bacterial infections, such as:

• Acne vulgaris
• Rhinophyma
• Demodicosis
• Kerion
• Impetigo
• Seborrheic dermatitis

Mechanism of Action

Optacid works by inhibiting bacterial growth. It does this by blocking the production of folate as a byproduct of its metabolism, which lawfully kills the bacteria.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

How quickly sulfacetamide works depends on activity and the severity of the infection. Generally, results can be expected within 48 to 72 hours after beginning treatment.

Absorption

Optacid is rapidly and completely absorbed from topical applications, reaching fairly high concentrations in the epidermis, dermis and sebaceous glands.

Route of Elimination

Optacid is metabolized in the liver to sulfamethazine and 5-aminosulfosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Both compounds are eliminated in the urine.

Dosage

Optacid is available as an ointment and solution (10%) for topical treatments. Ages 12 years and up should use 10% solution by applying it directly to the affected area 1-2 time a day. For ages 2-12, the dosage of 10% solution should not exceed 2 grams each day, again, 1-2 times a day.

Administration

Optacid is applied topically directly to the affected area. It can be applied twice a day up to a maximum of two grams each day.

Side Effects

Optacid can cause a few common side effects, including burning, itching, irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling. In more severe cases, it can also lead to hyperpigmentation, contact dermatitis, sensitization, rosacea-like eruptions, and more serious forms of skin infection.

Toxicity

Optacid is usually well tolerated but can be toxic if it is used to excess. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, drowsiness, rashes, and difficulty breathing.

Precaution

Patients with allergies to sulfonamides should not use sulfacetamide. Additionally, it should not be used on severely burned areas or on areas with large amounts of hair because it can lead to burning and irritation. In rare cases, it can lead to anaphylaxis so medical attention should be sought if there is any sign of allergy.

Interaction

Optacid can interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking before starting treatment.

Disease Interaction

Optacid can interact with a variety of underlying health conditions, so it is important to inform your doctor of a preexistent medical conditions before beginning treatment.

Drug Interaction

Optacid can interact with a variety of medications, supplement, and herbal products. It is recommended to inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking, including non-prescription medications.

Food Interactions

Optacid does not interact with food, however it is important to check with your doctor before taking any supplement or other product.

Pregnancy Use

Optacid should not be used by pregnant women unless instructed otherwise by a physician as it has the potential to cause harm to a fetus.

Lactation Use

Optacid should not be used by breastfeeding women as it has the potential to be passed in breast milk.

Acute Overdose

In the case of an acute overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately and monitored for symptoms of toxicity. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, dehydration, confusion, drowsiness, rashes, and difficulty breathing.

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to sulfonamides or any component, presence of facial infection or forming abscess. Also, should not be used on severe burns or on areas with a large amount of hair.

Use Direction

Optacid should be applied topically directly to the affected area. Use only as directed and do not use more than two grams daily.

Storage Condition

Store Optacid at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

Unknown

Half Life

Unknown

Clearance

Unknown

Here you find in details version of Optacid

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Optacid

What is Optacid?

Optacid is an antibacterial sulfonamide antibiotic. It is commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections.

How does Optacid work?

Optacid works by interfering with the production of essential proteins which are needed by bacteria in order to survive, thus killing them.

Who should not take Optacid?

Optacid should not be taken by those who are allergic to sulfa drugs, or by those who have kidney disease.

What are the side effects of Optacid?

Possible side effects of Optacid include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, skin rash, hives, dizziness, and headache.

What are some drug interactions of Optacid ?

Optacid may interact with other medications such as warfarin, methotrexate, probenecid, and some antibiotics. It is important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before taking Optacid.

What are the possible effects of an overdose of Optacid?

Possible effects of an overdose of Optacid include seizures, dehydration, damage to kidneys, and difficulty breathing. If you think you have taken too much Optacid, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately.

Is Optacid safe to use during pregnancy?

Optacid is in pregnancy category B, meaning it has not been shown to cause harm to the baby in animal or human studies. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Can I take Optacid with alcohol?

It is not recommended to take Optacid with alcohol, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Can I use Optacid to treat bacterial infections in other parts of the body?

Optacid is not typically used to treat infections in other parts of the body, since it is generally prescribed for use in the eye only. However, it is important to check with your doctor before using Optacid for anything other than what it has been specifically prescribed for.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Optacid?

If you miss a dose of Optacid, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.

Can children take Optacid?

Optacid is generally not prescribed for children because it has not been studied in this population. It is important to consult your doctor before giving Optacid to a child.

What is the recommended dosage of Optacid?

The recommended dosage of Optacid is typically 1% solution applied to the affected eye 2-4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

How long should I take Optacid?

Most courses of treatment with Optacid are for no more than a few days. However, it is important to take as many doses as prescribed for complete effectiveness. If you miss a dose or feel that your symptoms are not improving, consult your doctor.

Can I use regular eye drops while using Optacid?

No, it is not recommended to use regular eye drops while taking Optacid. Consult your doctor before using any other eye medications while taking Optacid.

Can I take other medications while using Optacid?

It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, even over-the-counter medications. Certain medications may interact with Optacid and cause unwanted side effects.

Will Optacid treat a stye?

Yes, Optacid is commonly used to treat bacterial infections including styes.

Is Optacid available over-the-counter?

No, Optacid is only available with a prescription from your doctor.

Can Optacid be used to treat a viral eye infection?

No, Optacid is not effective in treating viral eye infections. Consult your doctor if you think you may have a viral eye infection.

Should I take Optacid with food?

No, since Optacid is an eye drop, it does not need to be taken with food or any other medication.

How long does it take for Optacid to work?

It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for Optacid to work. However, it is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Optacid?

No, it is not recommended to wear contact lenses while using Optacid. Wait until finish the course of treatment and, if prescribed, switch to soft lenses instead of hard lenses.

Is Optacid a steroid?

No, Optacid is not a steroid. It is an antibacterial sulfonamide antibiotic.

Can Optacid be used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis?

Yes, Optacid is effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis.

If I stop taking Optacid, will my infection come back?

Yes, it is important to take all of the medication prescribed by your doctor for the full duration of treatment in order to ensure the infection does not come back.

Does Optacid have any effect on the liver?

Optacid has been known to cause liver damage in rare cases. It is important to tell your doctor if you have pre-existing liver disease before taking Optacid.

Is Optacid effective in treating corneal ulcers?

Yes, Optacid is effective in treating corneal ulcers.

Are there any alternatives to Optacid?

Yes, other antibiotics such as bacitracin or gentamicin may be prescribed instead of Optacid, depending on your infection. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Can Optacid be used to treat pink eye?

Yes, Optacid is an effective treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye.

Can Optacid be used to treat all types of eye infections?

No, Optacid is only effective in treating certain bacterial eye infections such as pink eye or styes. It is important to consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Is Optacid safe to use with contact lenses?

It is not recommended to use Optacid with contact lenses. Remove lenses before applying the eye drops, and then wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contacts back in.

What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Optacid?

It is important to tell your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects while taking Optacid. Do not stop taking the medication unless instructed by your doctor.

Can Optacid be used to treat glaucoma?

No, Optacid is not effective in treating glaucoma.

Can Optacid be used to treat a staph infection of the eye?

Yes, Optacid is effective in treating certain infections caused by Staphylococcus bacteria.

Should I take Optacid with food or on an empty stomach?

Since Optacid is an eye drop, it does not need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach.

Can Optacid be used to treat blepharitis?

Yes, Optacid is effective in treating infections of the eyelid caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus including blepharitis.

Can I use Optacid if I have an allergy to sulfa drugs?

No, Optacid contains sulfa drugs and may cause an allergic reaction. Do not use this medication if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs.

Can Optacid cause blurred vision?

Yes, blurred vision is a possible side effect of Optacid. Contact your doctor if you experience this side effect while taking Optacid.

Can Optacid be used to treat an eye infection that has spread to other parts of the body?

No, Optacid is not effective in treating infections that have spread to other parts of the body. Consult your doctor if you think the infection has spread.

What should I do if I get Optacid in my mouth or nose?

If you get Optacid in your mouth or nose, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention immediately.

What should I do if my symptoms do not improve while taking Optacid?

It is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve after taking Optacid, consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Can Optacid be used to treat fungal eye infections?

No, Optacid is not effective in treating fungal eye infections. Consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Does Optacid cause dry eyes?

Yes, dry eyes is a possible side effect of Optacid. Contact your doctor if you experience dry eyes while taking Optacid.