Collagenase ointment is usually used to treat and clean wounds on the skin, removing dead tissue or making it difficult to heal properly. In this way, this type of ointment is widely used by health professionals to treat bedsores, varicose ulcers or gangrene, for example.
This ointment can be purchased at conventional pharmacies under the name of Kollagenase or Iruxol mono, with prescription. In some cases, the dermatologist or nurse who is doing the wound treatment may also indicate an ointment with collagenase and chloramphenicol, which is an antibiotic used when there is a risk of infection.
How to use
Collagenase ointments are normally used by a healthcare professional in the treatment of difficult-to-heal wounds to promote enzymatic debridement.
To use this type of ointment correctly you should:
- Remove all necrotic tissue that has been released since the last use;
- Clean the wound with saline;
- Apply the ointment with a thickness of 2 mm over the areas with necrosis tissue;
- Close the dressing correctly.
In the case of very thick plaques of necrosis tissue, it is advisable to make small cuts with a scalpel or moisten with gauze and saline before applying the ointment.
This type of dressing should be changed daily or up to 2 times a day, depending on the results and expected action. The results are visible after about 6 days, but cleaning can take up to 14 days, depending on the type of wound.
Check how to correctly do the scarring of a scar.
Possible side effects
The emergence of side effects with the use of collagenase is rare, however, some people may report burning sensation, pain or irritation at the application site. Redness may also appear on the sides of the wound.
Who should not use
Collagenase ointment is contraindicated for people who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the formula.
In addition, this product should not be used at the same time as detergents, hexachlorophene, mercury, silver, iodopovidone, thyrocyrtin, gramicidin or tetracycline because they are substances that affect the correct functioning of the enzyme.
