Products
Ketanserin is commercially available as a gel (Vulketan). It has been approved in many countries since 1995 and exclusively as a veterinary drug. In other countries, it is also available for human use as an antihypertensive.
Structure and properties
Ketanserin (C22H22FN3O3, Mr = 395.4 g/mol) is a quinazolinone derivative. Ketanserin hydrogenotartrate is used in veterinary medicine.
Effects
Ketanserin (ATCvet QD03A, ATC C02KD01) is locally wound healing-promoting. It provides improved and accelerated wound healing in horses and prevents the formation of excess granulation tissue and the development of infections. Furthermore, ketanserin has a vasodilatory effect and thus increases blood flow.
Mechanism of action
Ketanserin is a selective and competitive serotonin antagonist. Its action is based on inhibition of local serotonin-related effects such as vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, increase in vascular permeability, and blockade and release of growth factors. This leads on the one hand to the guarantee of oxygen supply and microcirculation in the wound and on the other hand protects against the formation of excess granulation tissue. Ketanserin stimulates the proliferation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells, promoting faster wound closure. In addition, ketanserin blocks α1- and histamine H1-receptors.
Indications
For wound treatment in horses. In humans, ketanserin is used to treat hypertension.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Ketanserin is applied externally. It is recommended not to dress the wound after treatment.
Contraindications
Ketanserin is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity. It should not be applied to fresh wounds that are still bleeding. Refer to the drug label for complete precautions.
Interactions
No interactions with other drugs are known to date.
Adverse effects
According to the SmPC, no adverse effects have been observed in horses to date.
