Becaplermin (On The Skin)

Becaplermin (be-KAP-ler-min)

Aids in healing diabetic skin ulcers on the feet or legs.

Brand Name(s):

Regranex
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to becaplermin, or if you have skin cancer.

How to Use This Medicine:

Gel/Jelly

• Use this medicine only on your skin and only on the area prescribed by your doctor. You should not use on any other rashes, sores, or cuts.
• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Depending how quickly your ulcer heals, your doctor may change the dose of your medicine. Using more than your doctor tells you will not help your ulcer heal more quickly.
• Wash your hands well before applying this medicine.
• Squeeze the gel onto a clean surface that will not absorb the medicine, such as a piece of wax paper. Do not apply the medicine directly from the tube onto the skin.
• Use a cotton swab to spread an even layer of gel over the surface of the ulcer.
• Cover the ulcer with a gauze dressing that has been moistened with saline solution.
• Leave the ulcer covered for 12 hours.
• After 12 hours, remove the gauze. Carefully rinse the ulcer with saline or water to remove any medicine remaining.
• After washing off the medicine, put another saline-moistened gauze dressing on the area for the next 12 hours.

If a dose is missed:

• Apply the medicine as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Leave the medicine and gauze dressing on the ulcer for 12 hours before removing.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store this medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• You should not use the medicine after the expiration date that is stamped on the end of the tube.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use other medicines on your ulcer at the same time, unless instructed by your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Follow all other directions from your doctor in caring for your ulcer.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Pain, redness, warmth, or swelling around the ulcer

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.