Santyl

The active ingredient in Santyl is collagenase. The mechanism of action for Santyl (collagenase) is an enzyme (protein) that degrades collagen in damaged or dead skin. This permits new, healthy skin to develop in its place, promoting wound healing. It belongs to the enzymatic debriding agent drug class.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Santyl. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Santyl:

• Wash your hands before and after using Santyl.
• Follow your medical provider's recommendations for cleaning the skin wound and caring for the wound dressing. Use a gauze pad.
• Santyl is typically administered once daily. If the treated area becomes contaminated, clean it and reapply the ointment.
• Do not share Santyl with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
• Santyl's enzymes may raise your risk of infection in the bloodstream. If you develop a fever, chills, rapid heartbeats, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, or if you feel lightheaded or disoriented, contact your doctor immediately.

The most common side effects of Santyl seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Skin redness around the affected wound area.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Santyl. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, trouble breathing, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Santyl. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Santyl, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Allergies towards Santyl.
• It is advised to monitor patients for the possibility of systemic bacterial infections; debriding enzymes may increase the risk of bacteremia.
• May cause slight transient erythema in surrounding tissues.

Santyl is not recommended for patients who have exhibited local or systemic hypersensitivity to collagenase.

In a clinical investigation, half of those who used collagenase ointments such as Santyl (collagenase) had their wounds healed within 6 weeks. In comparison, half of those who used a placebo saw their wounds heal within 8 weeks. However, the time it takes for Santyl (collagenase) to work is determined by your wound and your body's healing rate.

When Santyl is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Silver nitrate is applied topically.
• Silver sulfadiazine topical.
• Topical applications that include silver and thimerosal.
• Antiseptic skin products (especially those containing heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and silver).

Santyl (collagenase) is normally given directly to the afflicted area once daily. If your prescriber specifies, you may need to apply it more frequently if the dressing over the affected area becomes soiled.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Smith & Nephew is the company that manufactures Santyl.

There are no lower-cost generics available of Santyl.

Santyl must be applied at least daily or more often if the dressing becomes saturated or soiled (eg incontinence). The collagenase enzymes are short-acting. Discontinue Santyl usage when the wound bed is free of necrotic tissue and granulation tissue is well-established

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.