Venelex Ointment 5gm
It is used to promote healing of skin ulcers and wounds.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Wound healing agent; Topical protectant
Pharmacologic Class
Emollient; Skin protectant; Mild antiseptic
Pregnancy Category
Not available (Generally considered safe for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption, consult physician)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Venelex Ointment is a topical medication used to help heal various types of wounds, such as pressure sores, diabetic ulcers, and burns. It contains Balsam Peru, which helps stimulate blood flow and new tissue growth, and Castor Oil, which keeps the wound moist and protected, aiding in the healing process.
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, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, clean the affected area and dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer to the affected skin. Wash your hands before and after use, unless the treated area is on your hand, in which case you should not wash your hand after application.
Your doctor may recommend covering the treated area with a bandage or dressing. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication, store it at room temperature, away from heat sources and moisture. Do not freeze the medication, and keep it in a dry place, such as a closet or drawer. Avoid storing it in a bathroom, where the humidity and temperature may affect its stability.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you forget to apply a dose of your medication, put it on as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or take extra doses, as this may increase the risk of side effects or other complications.
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, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, clean the affected area and dry it thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer to the affected skin. Wash your hands before and after use, unless the treated area is on your hand, in which case you should not wash your hand after application.
Your doctor may recommend covering the treated area with a bandage or dressing. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your medication, store it at room temperature, away from heat sources and moisture. Do not freeze the medication, and keep it in a dry place, such as a closet or drawer. Avoid storing it in a bathroom, where the humidity and temperature may affect its stability.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you forget to apply a dose of your medication, put it on as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or take extra doses, as this may increase the risk of side effects or other complications.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Keep the wound clean and dry before applying the ointment.
- Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for dressing changes and wound care.
- Avoid irritating the wound area.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent infection.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
wound_care:
Cleanse the wound thoroughly before application. Apply a thin layer directly to the wound or to a sterile dressing that is then applied to the wound. Change dressing as needed.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (Consult a healthcare professional)
Infant:
Not established (Consult a healthcare professional)
Child:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily, as directed by a healthcare professional.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily, as directed by a healthcare professional.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No specific considerations (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Balsam Peru is believed to promote wound healing by stimulating capillary growth, increasing blood flow to the wound area, and promoting fibroblast proliferation. It also possesses mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Castor Oil acts as an emollient and skin protectant, creating a moist environment conducive to healing and protecting the skin from irritation. It also has some anti-inflammatory effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption
Tmax:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (topical)
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
ProteinBinding:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
CnssPenetration:
No (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
Clearance:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
ExcretionRoute:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
Unchanged:
Not well-characterized due to minimal systemic absorption
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Local effect is immediate; wound healing process is gradual over days to weeks.
PeakEffect:
Continuous local effect with regular application.
DurationOfAction:
Until washed off or absorbed locally; reapplication is necessary for sustained effect.
Confidence:
Medium
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help 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, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe skin irritation
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. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience:
- Stinging
- Any other side effects that bother you or do not go away
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help 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, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe skin irritation
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. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience:
- Stinging
- Any other side effects that bother you or do not go away
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, contact 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 redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or pus from the wound.
- Allergic reaction: severe itching, rash, hives, or difficulty breathing.
- Worsening of the wound or no improvement after several days of use.
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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage 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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all of your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, you must discuss this with your doctor. This conversation will help you understand the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Topical overdose is unlikely to cause systemic effects due to minimal absorption.
- Excessive application may lead to maceration of the skin around the wound.
- Accidental ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
What to Do:
For topical irritation, discontinue use and wash the area. For accidental ingestion, seek medical attention or contact a poison control center (Call 1-800-222-1222).
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Wound assessment (size, depth, presence of exudate, signs of infection)
Rationale: To establish baseline wound status and guide treatment plan.
Timing: Prior to initial application
Routine Monitoring
Wound healing progress (reduction in size, presence of granulation tissue, epithelialization)
Frequency: Daily or at each dressing change
Target: Progressive improvement in wound characteristics
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement, worsening wound, or signs of infection
Local skin reaction (redness, itching, irritation, rash)
Frequency: Daily or at each dressing change
Target: Absence of adverse skin reactions
Action Threshold: Development of new or worsening skin irritation/allergic reaction
Symptom Monitoring
- Increased pain at wound site
- Increased redness or warmth around the wound
- Swelling
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge from the wound
- Fever or chills (systemic infection signs)
- Severe itching or rash at the application site (allergic reaction)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult a healthcare professional before use.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Minimal known risk due to topical application.
Second Trimester:
Minimal known risk due to topical application.
Third Trimester:
Minimal known risk due to topical application.
Lactation
Generally considered safe for topical use during lactation due to minimal systemic absorption. Avoid applying to areas where the infant may ingest the product (e.g., breast area). Consult a healthcare professional.
Infant Risk:
Low risk due to minimal systemic absorption by the mother and unlikely transfer to breast milk.
Pediatric Use
Generally safe for use in children, but specific dosing and safety data for very young infants may be limited. Use under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for extensive wounds.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments or precautions needed for geriatric patients beyond general wound care principles. Monitor for skin sensitivity or irritation.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Ensure the wound is thoroughly cleansed before each application to maximize efficacy and prevent infection.
- Apply a thin, even layer; excessive application does not enhance healing and may lead to maceration.
- Monitor the wound closely for signs of infection or allergic reaction, especially to Balsam Peru, which can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
- This product is for external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Not intended for deep or puncture wounds without medical supervision.
Alternative Therapies
- Collagenase (e.g., Santyl) for debridement
- Silver sulfadiazine (for burns and infected wounds)
- Hydrocolloid dressings
- Alginate dressings
- Zinc oxide-based skin protectants
- Honey-based wound dressings
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 5gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often available over-the-counter (OTC) or may be covered as a Tier 1/OTC item by some prescription plans, depending on specific plan benefits.
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 reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.