WARNING

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is an enzyme that is used as an injectable medication for the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture and Peyronie’s disease. While it can be effective for these conditions, like any medication, it comes with potential risks and side effects. Here is a brief overview:

• Injection Site Reactions: Common side effects include bruising, pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site. These are usually temporary and resolve on their own.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum, leading to allergic reactions. If you experience symptoms such as hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek medical attention immediately.
• Tendon Rupture or Damage: There have been reports of tendon ruptures or damage to structures in the hand, particularly when the medication is injected into areas with underlying structures like tendons. This risk is higher in individuals with a history of tendon problems.
• Nerve Injury: There is a potential risk of nerve injury, which could result in symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand.
• Swelling of the Hand or Fingers: In some cases, the injection may cause significant swelling of the hand or fingers.
• Injection into Blood Vessels: If the injection accidentally goes into a blood vessel, it can cause serious complications. This includes the risk of blood clot formation or other vascular problems.
• Peyronie’s Disease Specific Risks: For individuals using Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum for Peyronie’s disease, there is a risk of penile hematoma, swelling, and pain.

It’s crucial to discuss your medical history and any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum. They can provide more personalized information about the risks and benefits based on your individual health profile. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is an enzyme that breaks down collagen, which is a key component of connective tissues. This medication is primarily prescribed for the treatment of a condition known as Dupuytren’s contracture and Peyronie’s disease.

• Dupuytren’s Contracture: This is a condition where the connective tissue in the palm of the hand becomes thickened and shortened, causing one or more fingers to bend into the palm. Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is used to break down the collagen that is causing the contraction, making it easier for a healthcare professional to manipulate and straighten the affected fingers.
• Peyronie’s Disease: This is a condition characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause curvature or bending during an erection. Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is used to break down the collagen plaque that is causing the curvature.

How should this medicine be used?

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum is an enzyme that breaks down collagen, and it is commonly used for the treatment of conditions like Dupuytren’s contracture and Peyronie’s disease. However, it’s important to note that medical practices and guidelines can change, so always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s label. The information provided here is general and may not cover all specific details related to your treatment.

Here are some general guidelines on how Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum injection may be used:

• Administration by Healthcare Professional: The injection is typically administered by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or nurse, in a clinical setting. The healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on the specific condition being treated.
• Preparation: The healthcare provider will prepare the Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum solution for injection. It may involve reconstituting the medication with a diluent. This process should be done by a healthcare professional.
• Injection Site: The injection is usually administered directly into the affected area, such as a cord in the hand for Dupuytren’s contracture or a plaque in the penis for Peyronie’s disease.
• Treatment Cycle: The treatment is often administered in cycles, with a specified number of injections over a defined period. The exact regimen will depend on the condition being treated and the individual patient.
• Post-Injection Care: After the injection, the healthcare provider may provide instructions on post-injection care, including any specific activities to avoid or perform.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the progress of the treatment and to assess the need for additional injections.
• Potential Side Effects: Like any medication, Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum may have side effects. Common side effects may include swelling, bruising, pain, itching, and redness at the injection site. Serious allergic reactions are rare but possible.
• Patient Education: Patients should be educated on the importance of adhering to the treatment plan and reporting any unusual or severe side effects to their healthcare provider.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. They will provide you with the specific instructions based on your medical history and the nature of your condition. Additionally, they can address any concerns or questions you may have about the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

While the primary indications for Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum are Dupuytren’s contracture and Peyronie’s disease, some medical professionals may explore its use in other conditions or areas of research. However, the safety and efficacy of such uses would need to be established through further research and clinical trials.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum, there are several special precautions and considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, especially if you are allergic to collagenase or any other components of the medication.
• Infection: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing infections or skin conditions at the injection site, as the injection may increase the risk of infection.
• Bleeding Disorders: If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medications that affect blood clotting, inform your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of using Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum during pregnancy or breastfeeding with your healthcare provider.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Provide a complete list of all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Injection Site Reactions: Be aware of potential injection site reactions, such as swelling, bruising, pain, itching, or redness. Report any severe or persistent reactions to your healthcare provider.
• Follow-Up: Attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled by your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring is important to assess the progress of the treatment and manage any potential side effects.
• Patient Education: Understand and follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the administration of the injection, post-injection care, and any activity restrictions.
• Emergency Situations: In case of an emergency, such as severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), seek medical attention immediately.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns or questions you may have about the medication. They will provide the most up-to-date information based on your individual health status and needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary restrictions associated with Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum. However, it’s essential to follow any dietary instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Always inform your healthcare provider about any dietary supplements or changes in your diet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum:

• Contact Healthcare Provider: Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss the missed dose and determine the appropriate course of action.
• Avoid Self-Administration: Do not self-administer additional doses without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Follow Provider’s Instructions: Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum injection is used for the treatment of conditions such as Dupuytren’s contracture and Peyronie’s disease. Like any medication, it can cause side effects. Here are some of the common and less common side effects associated with Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum:

Common Side Effects:

• Injection Site Reactions: This can include bruising, pain, swelling, itching, redness, or warmth at the injection site. These reactions are generally mild to moderate and tend to resolve on their own.
• Swelling of the Hand or Fingers: Some people may experience significant swelling of the hand or fingers, which should be reported to a healthcare professional.
• Itching or Rash: Itching and skin rash may occur at or near the injection site.
• Pain: Pain in the treated area is a common side effect. This pain is typically associated with the enzyme’s action on the collagen in the affected tissue.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Tendon Rupture or Damage: There is a risk of tendon rupture or damage to structures in the hand, particularly if the injection is given into areas with underlying structures like tendons.
• Nerve Injury: Some individuals may experience nerve injury, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms may include hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• Vascular Events: There have been reports of injection into blood vessels, leading to vascular events such as blood clot formation. This is a rare but serious complication.
• Peyronie’s Disease-Specific Effects: For individuals using Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum for Peyronie’s disease, potential side effects may include penile hematoma, swelling, and pain.

It’s important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and individuals may react differently to the medication. Before starting treatment, discuss your medical history and any concerns with your healthcare provider. If you experience severe or unexpected side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum Injection:

• Storage:
  • Follow the storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Typically, Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum should be stored at a controlled room temperature.
  • Avoid freezing the medication.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired medication as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
  • Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidelines on proper medication disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States). If the person has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider to discuss the next steps. It’s important not to self-administer additional doses without medical guidance.
• Regular Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring is essential to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and manage any potential side effects.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider of your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions or medications you are taking.
• Allergies: Notify your healthcare provider of any allergies you may have, especially if you have a known allergy to Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum or related substances.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Activity Restrictions: Be aware of any activity restrictions or precautions advised by your healthcare provider during the course of treatment.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s label. If you have questions or concerns about Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum Injection, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized guidance based on your individual health status.