Generic
Nitrofurazone 0.2% Topical
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Nitrofurazone 0.2% Topical is an antibiotic ointment used for prevention and treatment of burn wound infections. It inhibits bacterial growth by suppressing enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Description
Nitrofurazone is bactericidal against a wide spectrum of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and also has activity against trypanosomes. It suppresses bacterial enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, reducing available energy for cellular functions, thereby stopping bacterial growth.
Indications
- Burns
- Wounds, ulcers and skin infections
- Preparation of surfaces before skin grafting
Therapeutic class
Topical Antibiotics
Pharmacological class
Nitrofuran Derivative
Pharmacology
Nitrofurazone inhibits bacterial enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, reducing available energy for vital cellular functions, thereby stopping bacterial growth.
Mechanism of action
Prevents infection by inhibiting bacterial growth in burn wounds.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Apply directly to lesion or place on gauze covering the lesion
- Once daily or every few days depending on dressing technique
Administration
- For external use only
- Clean affected area before application
- May be covered with dressing
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling
Precautions & warnings
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, excessive heat, strong fluorescent lighting and alkaline materials
- Avoid contact with eyes
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Cross-sensitisation may occur with other nitrofuran derivatives
Drug interactions
- Reduced excretion with probenecid or sulfinpyrazone
- Reduced absorption with magnesium trisilicate
- Antagonistic effects with quinolone antibacterials
Food interactions
No food interactions (topical use).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Nitrofurazone may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies show evidence of fetal harm.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Caution during breastfeeding; hold breastfeeding until treatment is completed.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children.
Geriatric use
Elderly may require dose adjustment.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose unlikely (topical use); symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Nitrofurazone 0.2% Topical