Drug
Collagenase
Pronounced
"KOL-a-JEN-ase klos-TRID-ee-um HIS-toe-LIT-ik-um"
Side Effects
See also How to Use and Warning sections.
Pain, swelling, bruising, bleeding, redness, itching at or around the injection site may occur. Swollen, painful areas in the elbow and underarm (swollen lymph nodes) may also occur when this medication is injected in the hand. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor promptly.
Tell your doctor right away if you have dizziness or feel faint. Sitting or lying down may help.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
If treating Dupuytren's contracture, tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills, increasing redness/swelling), signs of nerve injury (such as numbness/tingling/pain/strange feeling in the treated hand), tears in the skin around the injection site (lacerations).
Serious (possibly permanent) injury to the tendons/ligaments of the hand is a rare side effect of this drug/procedure. The injury may require surgery to repair. Tell your doctor right away if you have difficulty moving your fingers or hand after your doctor has told you it is okay to move them.
Some people using this medication for Peyronie's disease have developed lower back pain soon after receiving an injection. Tell your doctor right away if you have sudden lower back pain or back pain that spreads to your legs, feet, arms, or chest. The back pain may also include spasms and make it hard to walk. These symptoms usually go away after 15 minutes but may last longer.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using collagenase, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding/clotting problems.
If you are using this medication to treat Peyronie's disease, do not use a vacuum erection device during your treatment with this medication. Also, avoid straining your stomach/abdominal muscles, such as straining during bowel movements.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.