Collagenase Santyl Ointment (Collagenase) is a prescription medication used to clean wounds by removing dead tissue from skin ulcers and severe burns. This process, called debridement, helps the wound heal properly by clearing out tissue that can slow healing or lead to infection. Dermal ulcers are open sores on the skin, often caused by poor circulation, pressure, or underlying medical conditions. They can become chronic and may have dead tissue that needs to be removed for healing to occur. The active ingredient in Collagenase Santyl Ointment is Collagenase. Collagenase belongs to a class of medications known as proteolytic enzymes. It works by specifically targeting and breaking down native collagen, which is the primary protein component of necrotic tissue and dead cells in wounds. By selectively dissolving this dead tissue, it helps to effectively debride the wound, creating a clean wound bed that is conducive to the growth of healthy tissue and subsequent healing.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Collagenase Santyl Ointment from Canada, manufactured by Cardinal Health, in the strength of 250 u/gm ointment. The generic Collagenase is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Collagenase Santyl Ointment. The most common side effects of Collagenase Santyl Ointment may include the following:
• Irritation or burning sensation at the application site;
• Mild pain or discomfort at the application site;
• Mild redness around the wound
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Increased pain, redness, or swelling from the wound;
• Bleeding from the wound
These are not all of Collagenase Santyl Ointment's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Collagenase Santyl Ointment if you are allergic to Collagenase or any ingredient in Collagenase Santyl Ointment. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have allergies;
• Have pre-existing skin conditions or infections
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Collagenase Santyl Ointment and other medicines, such as other topical medications, antiseptics, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this drug will harm an unborn baby. Discuss the potential risks of using this medicine when pregnant with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Collagenase is excreted in breast milk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Collagenase Santyl Ointment is an ointment. This medication is for use on the skin only. Please do not take it by mouth. Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Cleanse the wound thoroughly with normal saline or another suitable cleansing solution as directed by your doctor. Apply a thin layer of Collagenase Santyl Ointment directly to the entire wound bed, ensuring the necrotic tissue is covered. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing. Apply once daily, as directed by your doctor. Change dressings regularly. Remove any loosened necrotic tissue with forceps or scissors during dressing changes, if appropriate and as directed by your doctor. Store Collagenase Santyl Ointment at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.