FURASEP CREAM

Indications

• Second degree burns
• Third degree burns
• Skin grafting procedures

Dosage

Children: For paediatric use, refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations, as they may vary based on the child's age and weight.

Adults: For adults, Nitrofurazone is applied topically to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily. The exact duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the clinical response.

Mechanism of action

The exact mechanism of action of nitrofurazone is not known. However, it is believed to inhibit several bacterial enzymes, particularly those involved in the aerobic and anaerobic degradation of glucose and pyruvate. This includes potential effects on pyruvate dehydrogenase, citrate synthetase, malate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, and pyruvate decarboxylase, which are essential for bacterial growth and metabolism.

Pharmacodynamics

Nitrofurazone exhibits antibacterial properties and is indicated as an adjunctive therapy for second and third degree burns, as well as during skin grafting procedures where there is a risk of infection from resistant bacteria. It functions effectively in these clinical situations by reducing the bacterial load and preventing infection, thereby promoting healing.

Pharmacokinetics

Nitrofurazone is administered topically, leading to localized effects with minimal systemic absorption. The drug’s pharmacokinetics are characterized by a rapid onset of action at the site of application. The distribution in tissues and the elimination parameters are not extensively documented due to its primary topical use, but it is crucial to consider that organic matter such as blood and pus can inhibit its antibacterial action.

Pregnancy

Nitrofurazone should be used in pregnancy only if clearly needed, as safety has not been established.

Breast-feeding

Caution is advised when nitrofurazone is administered to breastfeeding mothers.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.

Formulations

• Topical cream
• Topical ointment

Mechanism of action

The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Nitrofurazone inhibits several bacterial enzymes, especially those involved in the aerobic and anaerobic degradation of glucose and pyruvate. This activity is believed also to affect pyruvate dehydrogenase, citrate synthetase, malate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, and pyruvate decarboxylase. MECHANISM OF ANTIBACTERIAL ACTION OF FURAN DERIV IS UNKNOWN, BUT IT IS PRESUMED THAT THE COMPD INTERFERES WITH ENZYMATIC PROCESSES ESSENTIAL TO BACTERIAL GROWTH. /FURAN DERIV/ The exact mechanism of action of nitrofurazone is not known. It appears, howeverthat the drug acts by inhibiting bacterial enzymes involved in carbohydrage metabolism. Oragnic matter (eg, blood pus, serum) and aminobenzoic acid (p-aminobenzoic acid) inhibit the antibacterial action of nitrofurazone.

Pharmacodynamics

Nitrofurazone is a topical antibacterial agent indicated as an adjunctive therapy for second and third degree burns when resistance to other agents is a real or potential problem. Nitrofurazone is also indicated in skin grafting when bacterial contamination may cause graft rejection or donor site infection, especially in hospitals with a history of resistant bacteria.