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Collagenase
Pronunciation
U.S. Brand Names
Generic Available
Pharmacological Index
Use
Pregnancy Risk Factor
Contraindications
Warnings/Precautions
Adverse Reactions
Overdosage/Toxicology
Drug Interactions
Mechanism of Action
Usual Dosage
Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions
Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment
Patient Information
Nursing Implications
Dosage Forms
References

Pronunciation
(KOL la je nase)

U.S. Brand Names
Biozyme-C®; Santyl®

Generic Available

No


Pharmacological Index

Enzyme, Topical Debridement


Use

Promotes debridement of necrotic tissue in dermal ulcers and severe burns


Pregnancy Risk Factor

C


Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to collagenase


Warnings/Precautions

For external use only; avoid contact with eyes; monitor debilitated patients for systemic bacterial infections because debriding enzymes may increase the risk of bacteremia


Adverse Reactions

1% to 10%: Local: Irritation

<1%: Pain and burning may occur at site of application


Overdosage/Toxicology

Action of enzyme may be stopped by applying Burow's solution


Drug Interactions

Decreased effect: Enzymatic activity is inhibited by detergents, benzalkonium chloride, hexachlorophene, nitrofurazone, tincture of iodine, and heavy metal ions (silver and mercury)


Mechanism of Action

Collagenase is an enzyme derived from the fermentation of Clostridium histolyticum and differs from other proteolytic enzymes in that its enzymatic action has a high specificity for native and denatured collagen. Collagenase will not attack collagen in healthy tissue or newly formed granulation tissue. In addition, it does not act on fat, fibrin, keratin, or muscle.


Usual Dosage

Topical: Apply once daily (or more frequently if the dressing becomes soiled)


Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions

No information available to require special precautions


Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

No effects or complications reported


Patient Information

Use exactly as directed; do not overuse. Wear gloves to apply a thin film to affected area. If dressing is necessary, use a porous dressing. Avoid contact with eyes. Report increased swelling, redness, rash, itching, signs of infection, worsening of condition, or lack of healing. Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend to be pregnant. Consult prescriber if breast-feeding.


Nursing Implications

Do not introduce into major body cavities; monitor debilitated patients for systemic bacterial infections


Dosage Forms

Ointment, topical: 250 units/g (15 g, 30 g)


References

Chamberlain TM, Cali TS, Cuzzell J, et al, "Assessment and Management of Pressure Sores in Long-Term Care Facilities," Consult Pharm, 1992, 7(12)1328-40.


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