Polidocanol

Products

Polidocanol is commercially available in a variety of topical medications, including skin care products, creams, lotions, gels, and sprays. Parenterally, it is also used for local sclerotherapy of veins; see Polidocanol for Vein Sclerotherapy.

Structure and properties

The European Pharmacopoeia defines polidocanol as a mixture of ethers of various macrogols with fatty alcohols, mainly lauryl alcohol (C12H26O). It is either a colorless, water-insoluble liquid or a white, waxy mass that is soluble or dispersible in water.

Effects

Polidocanol (ATC C05BB02) has antipruritic, analgesic, local anesthetic, and vein sclerosing properties.

Indications

  • For external treatment of skin diseases, especially with itching.
  • For sclerotherapy of veins, see under polidocanol for sclerotherapy of veins.