Sulfonamides are a class of antibiotics that are effective against many gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative bacteria. Some sulfonamides are applied directly to the skin (topically) to treat burns and skin, vaginal, and eye infections.
Sulfonamides include the following:
Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is commonly used in combination with (TMP). The combination is called TMP/SMX.
Sulfonamides
Drug | Common Uses | Some Potential Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
Sulfadoxine Sulfamethizole Sulfisoxazole | Inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis) Superficial eye infections Only topically for burns Skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) | Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea Allergic reactions including rashes, anaphylaxis, and angioedema Crystals in urine (rare) A decrease in white blood cell and platelet counts Sensitivity to sunlight In people with G6PD deficiency (see table More About Some Causes of Anemia), the breakdown of red blood cells |
G6PD = deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. | ||
(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)
Use of Sulfonamides During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Sulfonamides should be used during pregnancy only when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. However, they should not be used when the due date is near because, taken at that time, they may cause jaundice in the newborn, which may be severe enough to cause brain damage (kernicterus) in the newborn. (See also Drug Use During Pregnancy.)
Sulfonamides should not be taken during breastfeeding. (See also Drug Use During Breastfeeding.)
