The exact mechanism by which silver sulfadiazine exerts its antiinfective activity is unknown. Both free silver and the sulfonamide moiety may exert activity, but the drug does not inhibit folic acid synthesis as other sulfonamides do.

Generic Silvadene disrupts bacteria by damaging the cell membrane and the cell wall rather than by inhibiting folic acid synthesis. Generic Silvadene has a wide spectrum of bactericidal activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Organisms that are susceptible to topical Generic Silvadene include Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, beta-hemolytic streptococci, Klebsiella, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter (including E. cloacae), Citrobacter, Proteus, Pseudomonas, Morganella morganii, Providencia, Serratia, and Candida albicans.

Bathe the burned area daily.

You should continue using Generic Silvadene Cream until the area has healed or is ready for skin grafting.

Clean your skin and apply Generic Silvadene with a sterile, gloved hand. Apply a thin layer (about one-sixteenth of an inch) to the affected area.

If you miss a Generic Silvadene dose
Keep the burn areas covered with Generic Silvadene at all times. Reapply the medicine if it is rubbed or washed off.

Apply Generic Silvadene Cream 1% to the affected area once or twice daily to a thickness of one-sixteenth of an inch. Treatment with Generic Silvadene should be continued until your doctor is satisfied that healing has occurred or determines that the burn site is ready for grafting.

Generic Silvadene Storage instructions
Generic Silvadene can be stored at room temperature.

Generic Silvadene Overdose
Generic Silvadene taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.

Topical enzyme preparations such as Panafil and Santyl, that contain collagenase, papain, or sutilains.

Special precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

The safety of Generic Silvadene during pregnancy has not been fully studied, but you definitely should not take this drug at the end of your pregnancy, as it can lead to complications for the baby.

Although it is not known whether Generic Silvadene appears in breast milk, other sulfa drugs are excreted in breast milk and can cause harm to a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Special warnings about Generic Silvadene
Make sure your doctor knows about any kidney or liver problems you may have. If either organ becomes impaired, it may be necessary to stop using Generic Silvadene.

There is a small chance of fungal infection when using Generic Silvadene.

Do not use Generic Silvadene at the end of pregnancy, on premature infants, or on newborn infants during the first 2 months of life.

Possible Generic Silvadene side effects
Side effects of Generic Silvadene cannot be anticipated. If any side effects develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue using Generic Silvadene.

Side effects of Generic Silvadene may include:
Areas of dead skin, burning sensation, red and raised rash on the body, skin discoloration.