What is Regranex?
Regranex for the skin is used to treat diabetic ulcers on the feet and legs of people who have normal blood circulation.Regranex should not be used to treat pressure sores, bedsores, or ulcers that are caused by poor blood circulation.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Regranex.
Side effects of Regranex
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- An increase in the size or severity of symptoms
- Itching is a severe condition.
- Skin redness;
- Blistering or peeling of the skin
Regranex can cause the following side effects:
- Red is rash.
- Burning where the medicine has been applied.
There may be other side effects.Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects, you can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Regranex should not be used if you are suffering from skin cancer in the area where you plan to apply it.Cancer has been reported in some people who have used becaplermin. It is unknown whether or not this medicine causes cancer.
Before you take this drug
Becaplermin should not be used if you are allergic to the drug or if cancer has affected your skin.
Inform your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Cancer
- Blood circulation problems in your lower legs.
Cancer has been reported in some people who have used becaplermin. It is unknown if becaplermin causes cancer. You should ask your doctor about the risk.Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.Regranex should not be used by anyone under the age of 16.
How to take Regranex?
Follow the directions in the guide or instructions that come with the medication. Your doctor may change your dose. Take the medicine exactly as directed.Only take it by mouth. Topical medications are to only be applied on the skin.You should read all the instructions that are included with your medicine. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you do not understand.Before applying Regranex, wash your hands.Regranex can be applied to the skin using a cotton swab or other disposable applicator.Do not touch the tip of the tube with any surface. This includes your fingers and the ulcer that you are treating.Your symptoms may not improve for several weeks. Call your doctor if the foot ulcer does not shrink by at least a third in 10 weeks or is not healed completely after 20 weeks.Becaplermin should be used as part of an overall ulcer treatment program, which includes not putting any weight on the leg or foot affected by an open ulcer. You should follow your doctor's advice.Your doctor should check on your foot ulcers regularly.The medicine should be stored in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Cap the tube when not in use. Regranex should not be used after the date of expiration.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are close to your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never apply two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of Regranex are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Avoid putting pressure on the affected foot.Do not use other medications to treat the same areas that you have treated with becaplermin, unless you are told by your doctor.Regranex should not be used in the mouth, eyes, or vagina.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine applied to your skin. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
