Polidocanol for endovenous microfoam sclerosant therapy.
BACKGROUND
Polidocanol is a liquid surfactant having endothelial cell lytic properties. In the form of a controlled, dispensed microfoam it is administered endovenously as a sclerosing agent in the treatment of varicose veins.


OBJECTIVE
This review summarizes efficacy of polidocanol endovenous microfoam sclerotherapy using a proprietary dispensing system to control foam characteristics and gas content for treating varicose veins.


METHODS
We reviewed in vitro, Phase I, Phase II and limited Phase III data for polidocanol microfoam with a focus on controlled foam formulation in therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinical trials of controlled dispensing of polidocanol microfoam provide evidence of effective treatment of chronic venous insufficiency with low toxicity, minimal risk and few complications.
Eckmann
David M
DM
University of Pennsylvania, 331 John Morgan Building/6112, 3620 Hamilton Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4215, USA. eckmanndm@uphs.upenn.edu
D002626:Chemistry, Pharmaceutical / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004304:Dosage Forms; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D000077423:Polidocanol; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012597:Sclerosing Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015911:Sclerotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000628:therapy; D014689:Venous Insufficiency / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy
D004304:Dosage Forms; D012597:Sclerosing Solutions; D000077423:Polidocanol; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols