Silvadene cream, known generically as silver sulfadiazine, is a prescription medication used on the skin to treat some infections. According to the Merck Manuals, Silvadene creates a seal that acts as a barrier to infection. The cream is mainly used to treat burns, especially second- and third-degree burns. Some practitioners also use Silvadene to treat pressure ulcers, Merck states. Silvadene is a sulfa drug and should not be used on someone who has a sulfa allergy. It should also be used on external areas only.
Step 1
Gather all necessary items and put them on a clean towel in a spot that is easy to reach.
Step 2
Wash the burn or ulcer gently with warm water and a mild soap using a soft washcloth. Pat dry with a soft, clean towel.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of Silvadene over the entire burn or ulcer wearing sterile gloves and using a clean cotton swab. Apply the cream until it is about 1/16 inch thick, as recommended by the National Institutes Of Health. Use a clean swab for each application on large areas needing more than one application. Apply the Silvadene once or twice a day.
Step 4
Cover the burn or ulcer with a sterile non-adhering gauze pad. Cover the nonstick gauze pad with one to two slightly larger regular sterile gauze pads.
Step 5
Wrap the gauze wrap around the gauze pads. Use the stretchy type of gauze wrap to hold the bandage more securely. Secure the gauze wrap with medical tape.
Step 6
Keep the burn covered with Silvadene and a bandage. Apply Silvadene for at least two weeks for maximum effectiveness. Do not discontinue the use of Silvadene without speaking to a doctor.
Step 7
Watch for signs of allergic reaction, which include burning, pain, redness, itching or blistering of the skin. Serious side effects such as shortness of breath or fever and chills require a doctor's care immediately. A full list of side effects is available at MayoClinic.com.
Tips and Warnings
- Silvadene can cause a slight brownish discoloration of the skin; this is normal. Store the Silvadene in a closed container at room temperature, the Mayo Clinic advises.
- Second- and third degree-burns and all ulcers should be treated by a medical professional. All burns and ulcers in those with diabetes, poor circulation or nerve damage should be treated by a medical professional. Consult a doctor about a tetanus vaccination in the case of more severe burns. According to the Mayo Clinic, Silvadene should not be used on children 2 months of age or younger. People with certain medical conditions, as listed by the Mayo Clinic, should not use Silvadene.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Mild soap
- Soft washcloth
- Soft towels
- Sterile gloves
- Silvadene cream
- Cotton swabs
- Sterile nonstick gauze pad
- Sterile gauze pads
- Gauze wrap
- Medical tape
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