Sulfonamides, or sulfa drugs, are used to treat various types of infections. Sulfa is a synthetic organic compound that inhibits bacterial growth. Some common sulfa antibiotics include sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) to treat urinary tract infections, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) for chronic ulcerative colitis and ophthalmic sulfacetamide (Bleph-10) for eye infections. Topical sulfonamides include silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene) for treating burns. Side effects may occur with both the oral and topical sulfonamides.
Common Side Effects
The most common adverse reactions include anorexia, headache, gastric distress, rash, itching, anemia and abdominal pain. Any of the sulfonamides may cause shortness of breath, skin rash, cough, and intestinal distress such as diarrhea and colitis. Less serious side effects may include dizziness, joint pain and insomnia.
Serious Side Effects
Serious, though rare, side effects to sulfa antibiotics include Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a systemic reaction with a rash on the skin and mucous membranes, including inside the mouth. The eyes may develop iris lesions, and inflammation can lead to permanent loss of vision.
Sulfacetamide Side Effects
Sulfacetamide (Bleph-10) is a sulfa drug used to treat eye infections. Merck.com reports that the side effects include itching and burning skin, corneal ulcers and conjunctivitis. Systemic lupus erythematosus has also been reported.
Silver Sulfadiazine Side Effects
Silvadene, a topical application of silver sulfadiazine, is used primarily as a treatment for wounds associated with second- and third-degree burns. A decrease in white blood cell count has been reported, along with skin discoloration, rashes, burning sensation and skin necrosis (dead skin).
Sulfanilamide Side Effects
Sulfanilamide (AVC) is used for treating vaginal infections. Severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the tongue or face, chest tightness or persistent sore throat are very rare with AVC. Abdominal pain or a fever more than 100 degrees F may not be a side effect, but an indicator that the medication is not clearing the infection.
Sulfamethoxazole Side Effects
A combination of two antibiotics, sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, is sold under the brand names of Bactrim, Bactrim DS, Septra, Septra DS and Sulfatrim Pediatric. Side effects requiring immediate medical care include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue.
System Side Effects
Sulfa drugs can have adverse side effects on every body system. Drugs.com lists the following side effects that may occur with any of the sulfonamides: hepatic necrosis, acute renal failure, urinary retention, tachycardia, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, convulsions, tinnitus, disorientation and depression.
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