GENERIC NAME: COLLAGENASE OINT - TOPICAL (coal-ADGE-ih-naze)
BRAND NAME(S): Santyl
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication breaks up and helps remove dead skin and tissue to promote healing. It is used to aid healing of burns and skin ulcers.
HOW TO USE: This medication is for use on the skin only. To apply, first clean the area as directed. If an antibiotic ointment is prescribed, apply it next as directed. Then, using a wooden spatula for deep wounds or a gauze pad for shallow wounds, apply the ointment directly to the affected area and bandage securely. Avoid use near the eyes and be careful not to get the ointment outside the affected area. Wash hands thoroughly after applying the ointment.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated when used as directed. Redness or irritation may occur to surrounding skin. If this continues or becomes bothersome, inform your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may use, especially of: other skin products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: If the condition for which this was prescribed does not appear to improve after a few days, notify your health care professional.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) as directed. Keep this and all medication out of the reach of children.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Peptic Ulcer - Learn about peptic ulcers, a hole in the gut lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.
- Burns (First Aid) - Burns are categorized by severity as first, second, or third degree. First degree burns are similar to a painful sunburn. The damage is more severe with second degree burns, leading to blistering and more intense pain. The skin turns white and loses sensation with third degree burns. Burn treatment depends upon the location, total burn area, and intensity of the burn.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows