MAFENIDE ACETATE

Mafenide (Sulfamylon) is a synthetic antibacterial agent related chemically, but not pharmacologically, to the sulfonamides. The drug appears to interfere with bacterial cellular metabolism and is not antagonized by PABA, pus, or serum. It is bacteriostatic against many gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, including staphylococci, streptococci, and Pseudomonas species. Mafenide is highly soluble and diffuses easily through an eschar. After percutaneous absorption, the drug is metabolized; it acts as a weak carbonic anhydrase inhibitor and may therefore cause systemic acidosis.
Mafenide is used primarily in the adjunctive treatment of second- and thirddegree burn wounds. It may cause severe pain on application, and active allergic contact sensitivity may develop.