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What Is Santyl Ointment?

Santyl is the brand name for collagenase ointment. This prescription medication is used to help the healing of skin ulcers and burns. Collagenase is an enzyme that works by breaking up and removing dead tissue and skin.

  1. Function

    • According to the Santyl website, this Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved ointment is an active enzymatic therapy that steadily removes dying tissue from wounds. Santyl clears the wound bed of minuscule cellular debris, allowing healthy tissue to grow. This medication is appropriate for use in the initial stages of removing damaged, infected, dead tissue or following surgical removal of the tissue.

    Side Effects

    • According to WebMD, side effects of Santyl ointment include pain or a burning sensation at the affected area and temporary irritation or redness of the skin surrounding the affected area. An allergic reaction to Santyl is rare, however medical attention is warranted for a developing rash, dizziness, breathing difficulties, swelling or itching of the face, throat or tongue.

    Warnings

    • Do not apply Santyl with bare fingers and wash hands thoroughly after application. Apply only to the affected area and refrain from getting medication on surrounding skin. Do not get ointment in the eyes or around the eye area. Skin products containing heavy metals may decrease the effect of Santyl.

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