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Other drug names: | A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9 |
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Becaplermin is used to treat ulcers of the foot, ankle, or leg in patients with diabetes. Becaplermin 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.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Becaplermin 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 becaplermin 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 becaplermin 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 becaplermin gel, follow these steps:
This drug must be used for a few weeks before your ulcer begins to heal. You may need to use becaplermin 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.
Before using becaplermin,
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed application and continue your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double amount of gel to make up for a missed application.
Side effects from becaplermin can occur. Tell your doctor if this symptom is severe or does not go away:
Keep this medication in the refrigerator, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not freeze it. Do not use the gel after the expiration date at the bottom of the tube. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Do not use becaplermin gel for other wounds or ulcers unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Last Revised - 01/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |