Klaron

Action

Inhibits bacterial synthesis of folic acid by preventing condensation of pteridine with aminobenzoic acid through competitive inhibition of dihydropteroate synthetase

Availability

Lotion: 10% in 2-oz and 4-oz bottles

Ophthalmic solution: 10% in 5-ml and 15-ml dropper bottles

Indications and dosages

➣ Acne vulgaris

Adults and children ages 12 and older: Apply thin film topically to affected areas b.i.d.

➣ Superficial ocular infections (including conjunctivitis)

Adults and children ages 2 months and older: Initially, apply one to two drops of ophthalmic solution into conjunctival sac of affected eye q 2 to 3 hours. Taper by increasing dosing intervals as condition responds. Usual duration is 7 to 10 days.

➣ Adjunct in trachoma

Adults: Apply two drops of ophthalmic solution into conjunctival sac of affected eye q 2 hours; must be accompanied by systemic sulfonamide therapy.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to drug or other sulfonamides

Precautions

Use cautiously in:

• sulfite allergy

• dry eye syndrome.

Administration

• To avoid contamination, don't touch container tip to eye, eyelid, or any other surface.

Adverse reactions

EENT: conjunctival hyperemia, eye burning, stinging, tearing (ophthalmic form)

Skin: local irritation, erythema, itching and edema (topical form), photosensitivity reaction

Other: secondary infections

Interactions

Drug-drug. Porfimer: increased severity of photosensitivity reaction, leading to excessive tissue damage

Silver preparations: precipitation

Patient monitoring

• Monitor patient for drug efficacy. Know that drug may be inactivated by purulent exudate.

Patient teaching

• Tell patient to apply a thin film of lotion to affected areas, as prescribed.

• Teach patient how to apply ophthalmic form. Instruct him to always wash hands first and to clean eye area of discharge by wiping from inner to outer area before applying.

• As appropriate, review all other significant adverse reactions and interactions, especially those related to the drugs mentioned above.