Becaplermin, sold under the brand name Regranex, is a cicatrizant, available as a topical gel. Regranex is a human

platelet-derived growth factor Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is one among numerous growth factors that regulate cell growth and division. In particular, PDGF plays a significant role in blood vessel formation, the growth of blood vessels from already-existing bloo ...

indicated along with good wound care for the treatment of lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers. It is also known as "platelet-derived growth factor BB".

Medical uses

Becaplermin is used for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Studies of becaplermin showed that when used with good wound care, complete healing significantly increased and the ulcers healed on average 6 weeks faster. Pharmacoeconomic studies reinforce the cost effectiveness of becaplermin as an adjunct to good wound care. The amount of becaplermin to be applied will vary depending upon the size of the ulcer area. Becaplermin should be stored in the refrigerator. Analysis of healing human wounds showed that PDGF-BB induces fibroblast proliferation and differentiation and was found to increase healing in patients with decreased healing capacity, such as people living with diabetes.Heldin CH, Westermark B. Mechanism of action and in vivo role of platelet-derived growth factor. Physiol Rev. 1999;79:1283-1316.

Contraindications

Becaplermin must not be used at the site of a

skin cancer Skin cancers are cancers that arise from the Human skin, skin. They are due to the development of abnormal cells (biology), cells that have the ability to invade or metastasis, spread to other parts of the body. It occurs when skin cells grow ...

. for Regranex.

Adverse effects

The most common side effects in clinical studies were erythematous rashes.

References

{{Authority control Dermatologic drugs