Opthalcid

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

Opthalcid

Opthalcid 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

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

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

Mechanism of Action

Opthalcid 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

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

Route of Elimination

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

Dosage

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

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

Pregnancy Use

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

Unknown

Half Life

Unknown

Clearance

Unknown

Here you find in details version of Opthalcid

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Opthalcid

What is Opthalcid?

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

How does Opthalcid work?

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

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

What are some drug interactions of Opthalcid ?

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid.

What are the possible effects of an overdose of Opthalcid?

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

Is Opthalcid safe to use during pregnancy?

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid with alcohol?

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

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

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid for anything other than what it has been specifically prescribed for.

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

If you miss a dose of Opthalcid, 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 Opthalcid?

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

What is the recommended dosage of Opthalcid?

The recommended dosage of Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

Most courses of treatment with Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

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

Can I take other medications while using Opthalcid?

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 Opthalcid and cause unwanted side effects.

Will Opthalcid treat a stye?

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

Is Opthalcid available over-the-counter?

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat a viral eye infection?

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

Should I take Opthalcid with food?

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

How long does it take for Opthalcid to work?

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

Can I wear contact lenses while using Opthalcid?

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

Is Opthalcid a steroid?

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis?

Yes, Opthalcid is effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis.

If I stop taking Opthalcid, 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 Opthalcid have any effect on the liver?

Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid.

Is Opthalcid effective in treating corneal ulcers?

Yes, Opthalcid is effective in treating corneal ulcers.

Are there any alternatives to Opthalcid?

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat pink eye?

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

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

No, Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid safe to use with contact lenses?

It is not recommended to use Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat glaucoma?

No, Opthalcid is not effective in treating glaucoma.

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

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

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

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat blepharitis?

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

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

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

Can Opthalcid cause blurred vision?

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

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

No, Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid in my mouth or nose?

If you get Opthalcid 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 Opthalcid?

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

Can Opthalcid be used to treat fungal eye infections?

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

Does Opthalcid cause dry eyes?

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