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Regranex (be-KAP-ler-min) is used to treat skin ulcers, usually on the lower leg, in patients with diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). It works by locally stimulating the wound to heal. It is important to use other methods for good skin ulcer care when using Regranex. Regranex is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form(s): Topical Gel (U.S.)
Regranex is used to treat ulcers of the foot, ankle, or leg in patients with diabetes. Regranex is a human-platelet-derived growth factor, a substance naturally produced by the body that helps in wound healing. It works, in combination with good ulcer care (cleaning, pressure relief, and infection control), by bringing the cells that the body uses to repair wounds to the site of the ulcer. Regranex is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Regranex comes as a gel to apply to the skin. It is usually applied once daily to the ulcer. Your doctor or wound caregiver will tell you how much Regranex gel to apply. The amount of gel to apply depends on the size of the ulcer. The amount you apply may be changed every 1 or 2 weeks as your ulcer heals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use Regranex exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Using more gel than your doctor prescribes will not make your ulcer heal faster. To apply Regranex gel, follow these steps: Wash your hands thoroughly. Squeeze the amount of gel your doctor has told you to use onto a clean, non-absorbent surface such as wax paper. The tip of the tube should not come in contact with the ulcer or any other surface. Recap the tube tightly after use. With a clean cotton swab, tongue depressor, or other applicator, spread the gel over the ulcer surface in an even layer about 1/16th of an inch thick. Moisten a piece of gauze dressing with saline (salt water) and cover the ulcer with the dressing. After about 12 hours, remove the gauze dressing and rinse the ulcer gently with saline or water to remove whatever gel is left. Cover the ulcer with a gauze dressing moistened with saline. This drug must be used for a few weeks before your ulcer begins to heal. You may need to use Regranex for up to 20 weeks. This drug must be used in combination with a good ulcer care program, including a strict non-weight-bearing program and good cleaning practices. Brand names: - Becaplermin - Regranex |