What is the topical becaplermin?
Becaplermin applied topically (to your skin) can be used for treating diabetic foot ulcers in people who have normal blood flow in the feet and legs.
Becaplermin topical should not be used for the treatment of pressure ulcers (bed sores) or ulcers that result from poor circulation. Topical becaplermin can also be used for other purposes not covered in this guideline.
Side effects of Becaplermin topical
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, like hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue, This medicine could trigger severe adverse effects. Take this medicine off and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- An increase in size and volume of the ulcer or worsening symptoms.
- Extremely severe.
- Skin redness.
- Skin that is peeling or blistering.
Common adverse effects of topical becaplermin can include:
- A red skin rash.
- Itching where the medication was sprayed.
This is not an exhaustive list of all possible adverse effects. Others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Becaplermin should not be used topically if you suffer from cancer in the area of your skin where you plan to apply it. Certain people who take becaplermin are afflicted with cancer. However, it's not yet known if this medication actually causes cancer.
Before you take this drug
Becaplermin should not be used when you have an allergy to it or are suffering from cancer that affects the skin area where you apply this medication.
Inform your doctor if you ever had:
- Cancer.
- Blood circulation problems in your lower legs.
Certain people who take becaplermin have been diagnosed with cancer. However, it's not certain if becaplermin causes cancer. Consult your physician about this possibility. If you are nursing or pregnant, see your doctor. Becaplermin Topical has not been recommended for use by anyone younger than 16 years of age.
How to take becaplermin topical?
Follow all the instructions on the prescription label and study all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may change the dosage. Make certain that you take the prescription exactly as directed. Do not consume by mouth. The topical medication is intended to be used only on the skin.
Take note of and follow the instructions for use that come along with your medicine. Consult your physician or pharmacist for clarification if you are unsure of the instructions. Cleanse your hands prior to applying becaplermin to your skin. Make use of a cotton swab, tongue depressor, or any other disposable applicator to apply the becaplermin to your skin. To prevent the medical tip of the tube from becoming contaminated Do not let the tube's tip be in contact with any surface, including your fingers or the wound you're treating. It could take several weeks before your symptoms begin to improve. Take this medication daily and contact your doctor in the event that the foot ulcer isn't at least one-third smaller after 10 weeks or if the ulcer is not fully healed after 20 weeks. Becaplermin is just one component of an overall ulcer care program that includes avoiding putting any weight on your leg or feet that are infected by an ulcer. Follow the instructions of your doctor.
Your doctor should examine the foot ulcer on a regular basis. Place the medicine in the refrigerator. Don't freeze. Keep the tube securely sealed when not being used. Be sure to not use becaplermin topical beyond its expiration date.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as fast as you are able, but do not take the dose you missed if it is close to time for the next dose. Don't apply two doses at once.
What happens if I overdose?
A dose of becaplermin that is too high is not likely to be dangerous. Get medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you have accidentally swallowed the drug.
What should be avoided?
Do not put pressure on the foot because of an ulcer that is diabetic. Beware of other medications that can affect the areas treated with becaplermin unless your physician recommends them. Avoid putting becaplermin-based topical creams in your mouth, eyes, or vagina.
Interaction with other drugs
The skin care treatment is unlikely to be affected by other medicines you take. However, many medications can interact with each other. Be sure to inform your healthcare professionals about all medicines you are taking, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
