Medihoney Wound Gel 15gm
It is used to treat or prevent certain skin problems.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Wound Care Product, Topical Antimicrobial, Debriding Agent
Pharmacologic Class
Medical-grade Honey (Leptospermum scoparium)
Pregnancy Category
Not applicable (Topical Medical Device, generally considered safe)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Medihoney Wound Gel is a special type of honey-based gel used to help wounds heal. It works by keeping the wound moist, cleaning it, and fighting germs to promote faster healing.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication only as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for topical use on your skin only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
If your medication requires shaking before use, make sure you understand the instructions before applying it.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In that case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area as instructed by your doctor. You may need to cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing; consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long you can store it before disposing of it. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
Since this medication is often used as needed, do not use it more frequently than recommended by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication only as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for topical use on your skin only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
If your medication requires shaking before use, make sure you understand the instructions before applying it.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In that case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area as instructed by your doctor. You may need to cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing; consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long you can store it before disposing of it. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
Since this medication is often used as needed, do not use it more frequently than recommended by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Follow healthcare provider's instructions for wound care.
- Maintain good hygiene around the wound.
- Change dressings as directed.
- Avoid touching the wound unnecessarily.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply directly to the wound bed or to a suitable dressing, ensuring the wound surface is covered. Reapply at dressing changes, typically every 24-72 hours depending on wound exudate levels.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
light_exudate:
Apply a thin layer, change every 48-72 hours.
moderate_heavy_exudate:
Apply a thicker layer, change every 24-48 hours.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Dosing as per adult, generally considered safe for topical use under medical supervision.
Infant:
Dosing as per adult, generally considered safe for topical use under medical supervision.
Child:
Dosing as per adult, generally considered safe for topical use under medical supervision.
Adolescent:
Dosing as per adult, generally considered safe for topical use under medical supervision.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Severe:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Dialysis:
No specific considerations (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Severe:
No adjustment needed (topical product with minimal systemic absorption).
Confidence:
High
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Medihoney Wound Gel contains 80% Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) honey and 20% natural gelling agents. Its mechanism of action is multifaceted: 1. **Osmotic Effect:** The high sugar concentration creates a hyperosmolar environment, drawing fluid from the wound bed (exudate) and surrounding tissues. This helps to debride the wound, reduce edema, and create a moist wound healing environment. 2. **Low pH:** Medical-grade honey has a naturally acidic pH (typically 3.5-4.5), which helps to lower the wound pH. A lower pH is unfavorable for bacterial growth and supports protease activity beneficial for wound healing. 3. **Antimicrobial Activity:** This is attributed to several factors: a) **Hydrogen Peroxide Production:** Glucose oxidase in honey reacts with glucose and oxygen to produce low, sustained levels of hydrogen peroxide, which has antimicrobial properties. b) **Non-Peroxide Activity (NPA):** Unique to Manuka honey, this activity is primarily due to methylglyoxal (MGO), which is formed from dihydroxyacetone in the nectar of the Manuka plant. MGO has potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects against various bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. 4. **Anti-inflammatory Properties:** Honey has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote granulation tissue formation.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal to none (topical application, primarily local action).
Tmax:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
FoodEffect:
Not applicable.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
Unchanged:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local osmotic and antimicrobial effects).
PeakEffect:
Continuous local effect as long as applied.
DurationOfAction:
Effective until dressing change, typically 24-72 hours.
Confidence:
High
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of skin infection, including:
+ Oozing
+ Heat
+ Swelling
+ Redness
+ Pain
Abnormal bleeding from the affected area
Fever
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice:
* Skin irritation
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of skin infection, including:
+ Oozing
+ Heat
+ Swelling
+ Redness
+ Pain
Abnormal bleeding from the affected area
Fever
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice:
* Skin irritation
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever)
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling)
- Worsening wound condition
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you have a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication.
* If you have a bleeding wound.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you have a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication.
* If you have a bleeding wound.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Before using sunscreen with this drug, consult your doctor for guidance. Additionally, discuss with your doctor the use of other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Certain brands of this medication may not be suitable for application on open sores, broken skin, or severe burns. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions.
Some products containing this drug may include metal components. If you have an upcoming procedure such as an MRI, cardioversion, radiation, or other medical procedure, inform your doctor beforehand, as these products may need to be removed to ensure safety.
In the event that this medication is swallowed, it can cause harm. If ingestion occurs, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, notify your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Before using sunscreen with this drug, consult your doctor for guidance. Additionally, discuss with your doctor the use of other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Certain brands of this medication may not be suitable for application on open sores, broken skin, or severe burns. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions.
Some products containing this drug may include metal components. If you have an upcoming procedure such as an MRI, cardioversion, radiation, or other medical procedure, inform your doctor beforehand, as these products may need to be removed to ensure safety.
In the event that this medication is swallowed, it can cause harm. If ingestion occurs, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, notify your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Not applicable for topical use; systemic overdose is not expected.
What to Do:
If ingested, seek medical advice. For topical overuse, simply remove excess product. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Wound assessment (size, depth, exudate, tissue type, signs of infection)
Rationale: To establish baseline wound status and guide initial application.
Timing: Prior to first application.
Routine Monitoring
Wound assessment (size, depth, exudate, tissue type, signs of infection, pain)
Frequency: At each dressing change (typically every 24-72 hours).
Target: Improvement in wound characteristics (e.g., reduction in size, healthy granulation tissue, decreased exudate, absence of infection signs).
Action Threshold: Worsening wound condition, increased pain, signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, purulent discharge, fever) warrant medical re-evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Increased wound pain
- Increased redness or warmth around the wound
- Increased swelling
- Foul odor from the wound
- Purulent or excessive exudate
- Fever or chills (systemic signs of infection)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy as systemic absorption is minimal. Consult healthcare provider if concerns arise.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Minimal risk.
Second Trimester:
Minimal risk.
Third Trimester:
Minimal risk.
Lactation
Generally considered safe for topical use during lactation as systemic absorption is minimal. No known risk to breastfed infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk.
Pediatric Use
Generally considered safe for use in pediatric patients of all ages for appropriate wound types. Always supervise application in young children.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments or precautions needed for geriatric patients. Generally well-tolerated.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Medihoney is effective for a wide range of wounds, including chronic wounds (e.g., pressure ulcers, leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers), acute wounds (e.g., burns, surgical wounds, traumatic wounds), and infected wounds.
- It can help to debride slough and necrotic tissue, reduce wound odor, and create a moist wound healing environment.
- Some patients may experience a transient stinging sensation upon application, which usually subsides within 30 minutes. This is often due to the osmotic effect.
- Ensure the wound bed is adequately covered with the gel, but avoid excessive application that could lead to maceration of surrounding skin.
- Not recommended for use in patients with known allergy to honey or bee venom (though rare for topical application).
- Not intended for use in third-degree burns or wounds with heavy arterial bleeding.
Alternative Therapies
- Hydrogels
- Alginates
- Foam dressings
- Silver dressings (for infected wounds)
- Cadexomer iodine dressings
- Enzymatic debriding agents (e.g., collagenase)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies, typically $15-$30 per 15gm tube
Insurance Coverage:
Often covered by medical insurance as a medical supply or wound care product, but coverage varies by plan. May be out-of-pocket for OTC purchase.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.