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Dextranomer
Pronunciation
U.S. Brand Names
Generic Available
Pharmacological Index
Use
Pregnancy Risk Factor
Contraindications
Warnings/Precautions
Adverse Reactions
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
(deks TRAN oh mer)

U.S. Brand Names
Debrisan®[OTC]

Generic Available

No


Pharmacological Index

Topical Skin Product


Use

Clean exudative ulcers and wounds such as venous stasis ulcers, decubitus ulcers, and infected traumatic and surgical wounds; no controlled studies have found dextranomer to be more effective than conventional therapy


Pregnancy Risk Factor

C


Contraindications

Deep fistulas, sinus tracts, hypersensitivity to any component


Warnings/Precautions

Do not use in deep fistulas or any area where complete removal is not assured; do not use on dry wounds (ineffective); avoid contact with eyes


Adverse Reactions

1% to 10%:

Dermatologic: Maceration may occur, erythema

Hematologic: Bleeding


Drug Interactions

No data reported


Mechanism of Action

Dextranomer is a network of dextran-sucrose beads possessing a great many exposed hydroxy groups; when this network is applied to an exudative wound surface, the exudate is drawn by capillary forces generated by the swelling of the beads, with vacuum forces producing an upward flow of exudate into the network


Usual Dosage

Debride and clean wound prior to application; apply to affected area once or twice daily in a 1/4 " layer; apply a dressing and seal on all four sides; removal should be done by irrigation


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. Clean wound as directed. Sprinkle beads into or apply paste to 1/4" thickness. Change dressing 1-4 times/day before dressing is completely dry to facilitate removal. Wash hands carefully following application. Avoid contact with eyes or other nonulcerous tissue. Report increased swelling, redness, rash, itching, signs of infection, worsening of condition, or lack of healing. Pregnancy precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend to be pregnant.


Nursing Implications

Sprinkle beads into ulcer (or apply paste) to 1/4 " thickness; change dressings 1-4 times/day depending on drainage; change dressing before it is completely dry to facilitate removal


Dosage Forms

Beads: 4 g, 25 g, 60 g, 120 g

Paste: 10 g foil packets


References

Chamberlain TM, Cali TJ, 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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