Topical antibiotic and antiseptic combination
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination cream that contains two germ-fighting ingredients — silver sulfadiazine (an antibiotic that kills bacteria) and chlorhexidine (an antiseptic that prevents infection). Together, they work to protect damaged skin from infections and help wounds heal properly.
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and disrupts cell membrane integrity through silver ion displacement of essential cellular ions, while chlorhexidine denatures bacterial proteins and damages cell membranes by disrupting lipid bilayer organization, providing broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Clean the wound or burn area gently, then apply a thin layer of the cream (about 3-5mm thick) directly on the affected area once or twice daily. Cover with a clean bandage or dressing after applying. Change the dressing and reapply the cream as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
If you forget to apply the cream at the scheduled time, apply it as soon as you remember. Then continue with your normal routine. Do not apply extra cream to make up for the missed application.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — avoid roadside sellers as fake or expired creams can cause serious infections instead of preventing them. Use the cream for the full duration your doctor prescribed even if the wound looks better, stopping too early can lead to infection coming back. Do not share your cream with others as wound infections vary and they may need a different treatment.
Do not use other topical creams or ointments on the same area at the same time unless your doctor says so, as this can reduce the effectiveness. If you are using enzyme-based wound cleaning products (like collagenase), silver sulfadiazine can make them stop working properly. Let your doctor know about any other medications you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Silver with your other drugs?
Do not use this cream during the last weeks of pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as silver sulfadiazine can potentially affect the baby — always consult your doctor first.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot so avoid leaving it in a car or near windows. Keep the tube tightly closed after use and keep away from children. Do not use if the cream has changed colour or has an unusual smell.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Silver Sulfadiazine; Chlorhexidine?
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