Medihoney Wound Gel 31815
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 Agent, Topical Antimicrobial, Emollient
Pharmacologic Class
Osmotic Agent, Anti-inflammatory, Wound Protectant
Pregnancy Category
Not assigned (Topical Medical Device)
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, fighting germs, and reducing swelling, which helps your body repair the skin. It's applied directly to the wound.
How to Use This Medicine
Using Your Medication Correctly
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Before using the medication, make sure to shake the product if necessary. Check the label or consult with your doctor or pharmacist to confirm whether shaking is required.
To apply the medication:
1. Wash your hands before and after use. If the affected area is on your hand, do not wash your hand after applying the medication.
2. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
3. Apply the medication to the affected area as directed by your doctor.
4. If necessary, cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing. Consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing temperatures. Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long it can be stored before disposal. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missing a 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 directed by your doctor.
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of your skin. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Before using the medication, make sure to shake the product if necessary. Check the label or consult with your doctor or pharmacist to confirm whether shaking is required.
To apply the medication:
1. Wash your hands before and after use. If the affected area is on your hand, do not wash your hand after applying the medication.
2. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and dry it thoroughly.
3. Apply the medication to the affected area as directed by your doctor.
4. If necessary, cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing. Consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing temperatures. Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long it can be stored before disposal. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missing a 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 directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Clean the wound thoroughly before applying Medihoney.
- Apply a generous layer of Medihoney to the wound or dressing.
- Cover the wound with a sterile, non-adherent dressing.
- Change dressings as directed by your healthcare provider, typically when the dressing becomes saturated or every 1-3 days.
- Wash hands before and after dressing changes.
- Do not use if you are allergic to honey or any components of the gel.
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 exudate levels.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
general_wound_care:
Apply a sufficient amount to cover the wound surface, approximately 3mm thick.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Apply topically as directed by a healthcare professional.
Infant:
Apply topically as directed by a healthcare professional.
Child:
Apply topically as directed by a healthcare professional.
Adolescent:
Apply topically as directed by a healthcare professional.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical application.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Medihoney Wound Gel contains medical-grade Leptospermum scoparium honey (Manuka honey). Its mechanism of action involves: 1. **Osmotic Effect:** High sugar content creates a high osmotic potential, drawing fluid from the wound, reducing edema, and promoting autolytic debridement. This also creates an environment unfavorable for bacterial growth. 2. **Low pH:** Honey has a naturally acidic pH (typically 3.5-4.5), which helps to lower the wound pH, creating an environment less conducive to bacterial proliferation and supporting wound healing. 3. **Hydrogen Peroxide Production:** In the presence of wound exudate, glucose oxidase in honey produces low levels of hydrogen peroxide, contributing to its antimicrobial activity without damaging host cells. 4. **Anti-inflammatory Properties:** Honey has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in wounds. 5. **Emollient/Protective Barrier:** The gel formulation provides a moist wound healing environment, prevents desiccation, and acts as a protective barrier, while its emollient properties help soften the skin and wound bed.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Not applicable (minimal to no systemic absorption)
Tmax:
Not applicable
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable
Clearance:
Not applicable
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable
Unchanged:
Not applicable
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local osmotic and protective effects)
PeakEffect:
Continuous with application
DurationOfAction:
Maintained until dressing change (typically 24-72 hours)
Note:
Pharmacodynamics are primarily local wound effects, not systemic.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Important Side Effects to Report to Your Doctor Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:
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. While 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 symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
* Skin irritation
This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, you can also contact your doctor. Additionally, you can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:
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. While 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 symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
* Skin irritation
This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, you can also contact your doctor. Additionally, you can 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:
- Increased redness, swelling, or pain around the wound
- Pus or foul odor from the wound
- Fever or chills
- Rash, itching, or hives at the application site (signs of allergic reaction)
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 application; systemic overdose is not expected.
What to Do:
If accidentally ingested, seek medical advice. For excessive topical application, simply remove excess product. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for any concerns.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Wound assessment (size, depth, exudate, tissue type, signs of infection)
Rationale: To establish baseline wound status and guide treatment.
Timing: Prior to first application
Routine Monitoring
Wound assessment (healing progress, exudate, signs of infection, periwound skin integrity)
Frequency: At each dressing change (typically every 24-72 hours)
Target: Improvement in wound characteristics
Action Threshold: Lack of healing, worsening infection, increased pain, skin irritation
Patient comfort/pain level
Frequency: At each dressing change and as needed
Target: Reduced pain
Action Threshold: Increased pain or discomfort
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of wound infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, purulent discharge, foul odor, fever)
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling at application site)
- Increased wound pain or discomfort
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy due to minimal to no systemic absorption. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk (topical application)
Second Trimester:
Low risk (topical application)
Third Trimester:
Low risk (topical application)
Lactation
Generally considered safe for topical use during lactation due to minimal to no systemic absorption. Avoid application to the breast area if breastfeeding.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Generally safe for use in pediatric patients of all ages. Dosage is based on wound size, not age or weight. Consult a healthcare professional for use in infants and young children.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments or precautions are typically required for geriatric patients. Use as directed for wound care.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Medihoney is effective for a wide range of wounds, including chronic, acute, surgical, and superficial wounds.
- The osmotic action of honey can sometimes cause a transient stinging sensation upon initial application, which usually subsides quickly.
- Ensure adequate contact between the gel and the wound bed for optimal efficacy.
- Can be used in conjunction with other wound care modalities, but always consult product instructions and clinical guidelines.
- Not recommended for use in patients with known allergy to honey or bee venom.
- The listed 'active ingredients' (Emollient Cream, Emulsion, Gel, Lotion, and Ointment) are actually *formulations* or *product types* that may contain emollients. Medihoney Wound Gel is specifically a gel formulation with emollient properties, and its primary active ingredient is medical-grade honey.
Alternative Therapies
- Silver-impregnated dressings (for antimicrobial effect)
- Antimicrobial ointments (e.g., mupirocin, bacitracin)
- Enzymatic debriding agents (e.g., collagenase)
- Moist wound healing dressings (e.g., hydrocolloids, foams)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely (e.g., $15-$50+) per tube (e.g., 0.5 oz, 1.5 oz)
Insurance Coverage:
Often covered under medical supplies/DME by insurance, but may require prior authorization or specific wound care plans.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is 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 it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.