Mafenide Acetate

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Cat Number

API0232117

CAS Number

13009-99-9

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Product Detail Description Scientific Support Customer Q&A

CAS Number

13009-99-9

EINECS

235-855-0

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

Sulfamilon; RQ6LP6Z0WY; alpha-Amino-p-toluenesulfonamide monoacetate; 4-(Aminomethyl)benzenesulfonamide monoacetate; DTXSID00156334

Molecular Formula

C9H14N2O4S

Molecular Weight

246.29

Smiles

CC(=O)O.C1=CC(=CC=C1CN)S(=O)(=O)N

Appearance

White to off-white crystalline powder

Melting Point

151-152°C

Boiling Point

382.0±44.0°C at 760 mmHg

Relative Density

1.3±0.1

General Description

Mafenide acetate is a synthetic sulfonamide derivative, specifically p-aminomethylbenzenesulfonamide, in which the methylamine group replaces the typical sulfonamide amino group. The acetate salt is formed to enhance stability and reduce local irritation. Unlike other sulfonamides, mafenide is not significantly inactivated by para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) or pus, and it retains activity in the presence of high bacterial loads and low pH, such as in burn wounds.

Mechanism of Action

Mafenide inhibits bacterial dihydropteroate synthase, blocking folate synthesis. However, its primary mechanism in burned tissue differs: it is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, leading to accumulation of carbonic acid and reduction of local pH, which is directly bactericidal. The drug also penetrates eschar effectively, reaching viable tissue. It has broad activity against gram-positive, gram-negative, and anaerobic organisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Clostridium species.

Application

Mafenide acetate is indicated as adjunctive therapy for second- and third-degree burns to reduce bacterial colonization and prevent sepsis. It is especially useful for burn wounds infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa or other resistant pathogens. The drug is applied topically. Its major adverse effect is metabolic acidosis due to carbonic anhydrase inhibition (via the acetate-free base, mafenide itself), requiring monitoring of blood pH and electrolytes.

Mafenide acetate‑loaded nanofibrous films were prepared by electrospinning using chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) according to a 3² factorial design. All films prevented bacterial penetration regardless of drug content. Incorporation of mafenide acetate enhanced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The authors conclude that chitosan/PVA nanofibrous films are promising wound dressings with protective, healing, and antimicrobial properties.

Fig. 1 Scanning Electron Micrographs of PVA: Chitosan Nanofibers (PC) Containing Mafenide Acetate. (Abbaspour M, et al., 2015)

References

Abbaspour M, et al. Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Effect of Chitosan/Polyvinyl Alcohol Electrospun Nanofibers Containing Mafenide Acetate. Jundishapur J Microbiol. 2015;8(10):e24239.

Does Mafenide Acetate require protection from light and moisture during storage?

Yes, it is photosensitive and hygroscopic. Light accelerates discoloration and moisture promotes hydrolysis. Store in light-resistant, tightly sealed containers with desiccant.

What is the recommended storage temperature for Mafenide Acetate?

Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid temperatures above 30°C, which can accelerate decomposition to p-aminobenzenesulfonamide and acetic acid.

Is Mafenide Acetate stable in topical cream formulations?

Yes, when formulated with appropriate preservatives and protected from light.

How is the impurity p-aminobenzenesulfonamide (sulfanilamide) monitored?

This primary hydrolysis product is specifically quantified using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains below pharmacopoeial limits.