Dermazin cream is a topical medication primarily used in the treatment of various types of wounds, particularly burns.
About Dermazin Cream
- Generic Name: Silver Sulfadiazine
- Properties: Antibiotic
- Manufactured and Marketed By: Novartis Pharma
- Presentation: 25gm, and 50gm Tube (Cream form)
Common Uses and Indications of Dermazin Cream
- Burns: Dermazin cream is especially effective for second-degree (partial thickness) and third-degree (full thickness) burns. It helps prevent and treat infections in burn wounds, which are vulnerable to bacterial invasion due to the loss of protective skin.
- Pressure Sores (Bedsores): Dermazin can be used to treat pressure ulcers, which are wounds that develop from prolonged pressure on the skin. Silver sulfadiazine cream helps prevent and treat infections in these wounds.
- Skin Grafts: After skin grafting procedures, Dermazin cream may be applied to the graft site to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Leg Ulcers: Dermazin cream can be used in the treatment of chronic leg ulcers, which are open sores that can be slow to heal.
- Donor Sites: When skin is harvested for grafting, the donor site is vulnerable to infection. Dermazin cream may be used to prevent infection in these areas.
- Radiation Dermatitis: Dermazin cream may be used in cases of radiation-induced skin reactions, where the skin becomes irritated, red, and sensitive due to radiation therapy.
- Partial-Thickness Skin Injuries: Dermazin cream may be used for wounds with partial-thickness injuries, such as abrasions or tears, to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Surgical Wounds: In some cases, Dermazin cream may be used to treat surgical wounds, particularly in situations where there’s an increased risk of infection.
Off-label Uses of Dermazin Cream
- Skin Infections: In some cases, Dermazin cream may be used to treat bacterial infections of the skin that are not related to burns.
- Chronic Wounds: It may be used for non-healing or chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers or venous stasis ulcers, where bacterial infection is a concern.
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: This is a severe bacterial skin infection that can be life-threatening. In some cases, Dermazin cream may be used as part of the treatment regimen.
- Preventing Infections in Surgical Wounds: In certain situations, healthcare providers may choose to use Dermazin cream to prevent infection in surgical wounds, especially in cases with a high risk of bacterial contamination.
- Skin Abscesses: It may be used in combination with other treatments for skin abscesses, which are localized collections of pus caused by bacterial infection.
- Ulcerative Colitis-related Skin Lesions: In some cases of ulcerative colitis, skin lesions may develop. Dermazin cream may be used to manage the skin symptoms.
- Preventing Infection in Skin Grafts: After a skin grafting procedure, Dermazin cream may be used to prevent bacterial infection in the graft site.
- Radiation Dermatitis: It may be used in cases of radiation-induced skin reactions, where the skin becomes irritated, red, and sensitive due to radiation therapy.
Formulation And Key Ingredients
- Silver Sulfadiazine: 1%w/w
Silver sulfadiazine is a combination of silver and sulfadiazine, which are both antibacterial agents. It is thought that the silver ions disrupt the cell membrane and cell wall of bacteria, leading to their death. The sulfadiazine component also inhibits the synthesis of folic acid, which is essential for bacterial growth.
Proper Application Of Dermazin Cream
Here are some additional tips for applying Dermazin cream:
- Use a clean fingertip or cotton ball to apply the cream.
- Do not apply too much cream, as this can make the wound more difficult to heal.
- Reapply the cream as directed by your doctor.
- If the cream gets into your eyes, rinse them immediately with water.
- If you have any questions about how to apply Dermazin cream, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Here are some of the things to keep in mind when applying Dermazin cream:
- Dermazin cream can stain clothing and bedding, so it is important to protect them.
- The cream can also stain the skin, but this is usually temporary.
- If you are using a bandage, change it regularly to prevent the cream from building up.
Who Should Not Use Dermazin Cream – Contraindications
- Allergy or Sensitivity: Individuals who have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to silver sulfadiazine, sulfa drugs (sulfonamides), or any other ingredient in Dermazin cream should not use it.
- Premature Infants: Dermazin cream is generally not recommended for use in premature infants, especially those born before 28 weeks of gestation, due to concerns about potential absorption through the skin.
- Patients with G6PD Deficiency: People with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, a genetic enzyme deficiency, may be at risk for hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells) when exposed to sulfa drugs.
- Porphyria: Dermazin cream may be contraindicated in individuals with porphyria, a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the nervous system and skin.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While the risks of using Dermazin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding are not well-defined, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially if the burn is severe or covers a large area.
- Silver Absorption Concerns: In rare cases, there have been reports of elevated serum silver levels in patients using Dermazin cream over extended periods, particularly in individuals with extensive burns. This may lead to a condition called argyria, where the skin turns a bluish-gray color. Therefore, long-term use should be monitored carefully.
FAQs
- Q: Can I use Dermazin Cream on minor cuts and scrapes?
A1: It is generally not necessary to use Dermazin Cream on minor cuts and scrapes. It is best suited for more substantial wounds, burns, and surgical sites. - Q: How long should I continue using Dermazin Cream?
A2: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the duration of treatment. Typically, it is applied until the wound heals or as directed. - Q: Can Dermazin Cream be used for sunburns?
A3: It is not recommended for sunburns. Sunburns are typically treated with aloe vera or over-the-counter sunburn creams. - Q: Is Dermazin Cream available without a prescription?
A4: No, Silver Sulfadiazine Cream usually requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. - Q: Can I apply Silver Sulfadiazine Cream on my face?
A5: It should be used on the face only under the direct supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional due to the risk of absorption through the skin.
Dermazin Cream’s Alternatives : Other Similar Brands
The following are Some alternative brands of Dermazin Cream and their manufacturers.
- Bio Sul : Bio Labs (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Burnasil : Bloom Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Burnazine : Wilsons Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
- Quench : Ferozsons Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.
- Dermaflam : Mediceena Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Flamoff : Valor Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
- Mazine : Global Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
- Silvate : GalaxoSmmithKline (GSK).
- Silvin : P.D.H. Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
- Silvench : Ambrosia Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
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