From the Guidelines
Silver sulfadiazine cream should be used for a limited duration, ideally not exceeding 2 weeks, for 2nd degree burns, as prolonged use is associated with delayed healing 1. When using silvidine cream for 2nd degree burns, it is essential to apply a thin layer, approximately 1/16-inch (1.5 mm) thick, once or twice daily, after gently cleansing the burn area with mild soap and water or saline solution.
- The cream should completely cover the burned area, but not extend onto healthy skin.
- Treatment should continue until the burn shows signs of healing with new skin formation or until a healthcare provider recommends discontinuation.
- It is crucial to monitor for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever, and seek medical attention immediately if they occur.
- A temporary grayish discoloration of the skin where the cream is applied may be observed in some patients, which is normal and will resolve after treatment ends. The use of silver sulfadiazine cream for 2nd degree burns should be re-evaluated daily, and dressings should be changed accordingly to prevent the bandages from inducing a tourniquet effect, particularly on the limbs 1.
From the Research
Duration of Silvidine Cream Use for 2nd Degree Burn
- The duration of silvidine (silver sulfadiazine) cream use for a 2nd degree burn can vary depending on the individual case and the healing progress of the wound.
- According to a study published in 2005 2, silvidine cream was applied once a day until the wounds healed, but for no longer than 4 weeks.
- Another study from 2010 3 compared the healing time of 2nd degree burn wounds with two dressing methods, including 1% silver sulfadiazine cream, and found that the healing time was shorter in the group treated with fundermol ointment.
- A review of antiseptics for burns published in 2017 4 found that there is low certainty evidence that silver-based antiseptics, including silvidine, may reduce the mean time to healing compared to topical antibiotics.
- An earlier study from 1975 5 reported that silver sulfadiazine was effective in controlling burn wound infections and promoting healing without pain or other demonstrable side effects.
Key Findings
- Silvidine cream can be used for up to 4 weeks for the treatment of 2nd degree burns 2.
- The healing time of 2nd degree burn wounds may be shorter with alternative treatments, such as fundermol ointment 3.
- Silver-based antiseptics, including silvidine, may reduce the mean time to healing compared to topical antibiotics 4.
- Silvidine has been shown to be effective in controlling burn wound infections and promoting healing 5.