Becaplermin, rh-PDGF skin gel
Key points
- BECAPLERMIN (Regranex®) is for treating skin ulcers, usually on the lower leg, in patients with diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes).
- Before using becaplermin, you should understand how and when to use this medicine and what effects may be expected.
- You should expect the dose to change each week or every other week, depending on the rate your skin ulcer changes in size.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose.
Becaplermin, rh-PDGF skin gel
What is becaplermin skin gel? BECAPLERMIN (Regranex®) is for treating skin ulcers, usually on the lower leg, in patients with diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). Becaplermin stimulates the wound to heal. It is important to use other methods for good skin ulcer care when using becaplermin. Generic becaplermin is not available.
What should my health care professional know before I receive becaplermin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- an unusual or allergic reaction to becaplermin, parabens, metacresol, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- cancer at the site of the ulcer
- wounds that show exposed joints, tendons, ligaments, or bone
- wounds that are closed manually by your health care professional
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Before using becaplermin, you should understand how and when to use this medicine and what effects may be expected. Your health care provider will provide you with details about the use of becaplermin. Read all the information carefully.
To make sure you apply your medicine correctly, follow the steps below:
1) Wash your hands before preparing your dose.
2) The proper dose depends on the size of the tube you are using and the size of the skin ulcer. You should expect the dose to change each week or every other week, depending on the rate your skin ulcer changes in size. Measure the proper amount carefully onto a clean surface such as wax paper. Then, transfer the medicine to your skin ulcer by using an applicator aid, such as a cotton swab or tongue depressor.
3) Spread the medicine on your skin ulcer as a thin (about 1/16th of an inch), even, continuous film.
4) After wetting a gauze pad with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Irrigation USP, apply it on top of your medicated skin ulcer.
5) After 12 hours, remove the medicine left on the skin ulcer with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Irrigation USP or water.
6) Keep the ulcer from becoming too dry. When changing the dressing, the existing bandage may need to be wetted with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Irrigation USP to help remove the bandage and prevent injury to the healing ulcer.
7) Wet a new gauze pad with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Irrigation USP. Apply it on top of your skin ulcer that no longer has the medicine on it and wait 12 hours before applying the medicine again.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
