Actovegin

Actovegin: description, use, contraindications and side effects

Actovegin is a medical product created on the basis of deproteinized hemoderivative of calf blood. The drug is used to stimulate tissue regeneration and treat various diseases associated with circulatory and metabolic disorders.

Production and release forms

Actovegin is produced by several companies: Krka (Slovenia), Nycomed Austria GmbH (Austria), Sotex PharmFirma/Nycomed Austria (Austria), Hafslund Nycomed Pharma (Austria), Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories (India). The drug is available in various dosage forms: cream 5%, ointment 5%, gel 20%, dragee forte 500 mg, ophthalmic gel 20%, solution for injection 80 mg, solution for injection 200 mg, solution for injection 400 mg, solution for infusion with glucose 10% , solution for infusion with sodium chloride 20%, solution for infusion with sodium.

Operating principle

The active substance of Actovegin - a deproteinized hemoderivative of calf blood - has the ability to stimulate metabolic processes and improve blood circulation in damaged tissues and organs. The drug accelerates the process of tissue restoration, increases their resistance to hypoxia and ischemia.

Indications for use

Actovegin is widely used to treat various diseases associated with circulatory and metabolic disorders, including:

  1. metabolic and vascular disorders of the brain;
  2. peripheral vascular disorders and their consequences;
  3. wound healing (ulcers of various etiologies, trophic disorders);
  4. thermal and chemical burns;
  5. hypoxia and ischemia of various organs and tissues and their consequences;
  6. prevention and treatment of radiation damage to the skin, mucous membranes, nervous tissue, damage to the cornea and sclera, keratitis, epithelial defect in patients with contact lenses.

Contraindications and side effects

The drug is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to its components. When used, allergic and anaphylactoid reactions, urticaria, skin hyperemia, increased body temperature, lacrimation, and scleral injection (eye gel) may occur. If allergic phenomena occur, treatment with the drug should be stopped immediately.

It should also be taken into account that Actovegin is not recommended for use in patients with cardiovascular diseases, including acute heart failure, obstructive atherosclerosis and severe forms of tonsillitis.

In general, side effects of Actovegin are rare and usually easily tolerated. However, if any adverse reactions occur, you should consult a doctor.

Dosage and method of administration

The dosage and method of use of Actovegin depend on the form of release and the nature of the disease. It is recommended to follow the instructions for use that come with the drug.

Cream, ointment and gel are applied to the affected skin in a thin layer 1-2 times a day. Dragees are taken orally once a day before meals. The injection solution is administered intravenously or intramuscularly 1-2 times a day. The solution for infusion is used only in hospital settings.

Conclusion

Actovegin is a drug that is used to treat various diseases associated with circulatory and metabolic disorders. The drug has few side effects, but before using it you should consult your doctor and read the instructions for use.