Used as a topical antiseptic for thermal and chemical burns. Silver sulfadiazine ointment is applied after prompt emergency treatment and debridement of burns. It is applied relatively thickly (1-2 mm) and does not need to be covered by dressings and so can be used under less than ideal conditions.

It has been found that prompt treatment of sulfur mustard by irrigation with povidone iodine and treatment with silver sulfadiazine can limit the effects of mustard exposure.

NOTE: all such reactions are rare.

Adverse effects are rare but may include induction of hemolysis in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (favism). There can be a transient leukopenia in some patients. Occasional cases of fungal infection of eschar (scar tissue associated with burns) have been seen.

In cases of extensive burns the levels of sulfonamide absorbed by the body can reach therapeutic levels. This can lead to adverse reactions including dyscrasias (abnormalities in the formation of blood cells), skin and allergic reactions, gastrointestinal, liver, neurological and kidney problems.

NOTE: The silver ion is not insoluble and it has been found that it can be mobilized by plasma proteins. Monitoring of the body's silver body burden may be necessary.