Products
Polidocanol is commercially available as a solution for injection (Sclerovein, Aethoxysclerol). It has been approved in many countries since 1967. Synonyms for the active ingredient include polidocanol 600 and lauromacrogol 400.
Structure and properties
Polidocanol is a mixture of ethers of various macrogols with fatty alcohols, mainly lauryl alcohol (C12H26O). It exists as a white, waxy, hygroscopic mass that is soluble in water and melts above 20°C.
Effects
Polidocanol (ATC C05BB02) has vein sclerosing and simultaneous local anesthetic properties. It causes occlusion of the vein, which is eventually replaced by connective tissue.
Indications
For sclerotherapy of varicose veins, spider veins, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and hemangiomas.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered either intravenously or submucosally, depending on the indication. It must never be injected intra-arterially, otherwise severe tissue destruction may occur.
Contraindications
- Intolerance
- Intra-arterial application
- Condition after fresh thrombosis
- Damage to the deep veins
- Arterial occlusive disease
- Bedriddenness
- Infectious diseases
- 1st trimester of pregnancy
- Diabetes mellitus
- Acute severe heart disease
- All diseases and situations that are associated with limited mobility.
- Acute inflammation in the anal area (sclerotherapy of hemorrhoids).
- Children and adolescents
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with anesthetics.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include pain during injection, appearance of vessels not seen before treatment, skin discoloration (eg, hyperpigmentation), and local blood clots.