Hirudoid Gel

Heparinoid 0.3% w/w (Equivalent to 25 000 Units per 100 g gel).

Topical gel.

Hirudoid is indicated for the treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis and the soothing relief of superficial bruising and haematoma.

Adults, the elderly and children over 5 years of age:

Two to six inches (5-15 cm) to be applied, as a thin layer, up to four times a day to the affected area. Recommended when its cooling effect and rapid action are required.

Not to be used on large areas of skin, broken skin, sensitive areas of skin or mucous membranes. Not to be used in individuals with a known sensitivity to any active or inactive component of the formulation. Not to be used in children under 5 years of age.

For external use only. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice. Do not exceed the stated dose.

None known.

There is no evidence to suggest that Hirudoid should not be used during pregnancy and lactation.

None.

None known.

In the absence of any reports of the accidental ingestion of Hirudoid, no specific advice is available. General supportive measures may be appropriate.

Heparinoid is recognised as having: a weak inhibitory effect on PGE₂ synthesis and an indirect effect on LTB₄ production (based on in vitro studies), anti-coagulant activity (as a heparinoid), thrombolytic activity (through potentiation of urokinase activity), anti-exudatory activity (through inhibition of hyaluronidase).

Radiochemical studies of absorption following cutaneous application of heparinoid (mucopolysaccharide polysulphate) have shown that between 0.3 and 4% of the mucopolysaccharide administered is absorbed by various tissues (other than the treated area) within the first 8 hours. Typically between 1.7% and 4.6% will be absorbed within 2 to 4 days. Animal studies have also shown that mucopolysaccharide is bound intracellularly within the subcutis. Peak serum concentrations following cutaneous application are below the threshold of physiological relevance for coagulation. Mucopolysaccharide is excreted in the urine partly unchanged and partly as depolymerized, shorter chain length molecules.

None stated.

Isopropyl alcohol

Perfume oil No 8185

Polyacrylic acid

Propylene glycol

Purified water

Sodium hydroxide

None.

5 years.

Store below 25°C.

Lacquered aluminium tubes 14, 50, 50 g.

Not applicable.

Genus Pharmaceuticals Limited

T/A Genus Pharmaceuticals

Park View House

65 London Road

Newbury

Berkshire RG14 1JN

United Kingdom

PL 06831/0174

02 February 2006

27 July 2008