Papain/urea (On the skin)

Introduction

Papain (pa-PAY-in), Urea (ure-EE-a)

Treats burns, bedsores, wounds from surgery, or skin ulcers.

Brand Name(s)

Accuzyme, Allanzyme 650 Ointment, AllanZyme, Kovia, Ethezyme 830 Papain

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Spray, Ointment, Liquid Under Pressure

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Clean your skin wound with saline or other cleanser recommended by your doctor.
• Before using a new spray bottle, prime the pump by holding the spray upright directly over the wound, and pumping 10 to 14 times.
• To use the spray form of this medicine, hold the bottle about 1 to 2 inches from your wound. Use even, firm, and equal pressure each time you pump the bottle to spray the medicine onto your wound. Completely cover the wound with this medicine. After applying the medicine, cover the skin area with a bandage or other dressing recommended by your doctor.
• To use the ointment form of this medicine, apply it directly to the skin wound. After applying the medicine, cover the skin area with a bandage or other dressing recommended by your doctor.
• For best results, cleanse or irrigate your skin wound each time you change your bandages, even if you do not apply papain/urea each time.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a cool place. Do not freeze. Keep the container opening covered and clean when you are not using it. Store the spray upright.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use hydrogen peroxide to clean your skin ulcer or wound. Hydrogen peroxide can keep papain/urea from working properly.
• Avoid using any other medicines that contain lead, silver, or mercury. These metals can keep papain/urea from working properly.
• Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Burning or stinging when you apply the medicine.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088