Polidocanol belongs to a class of medication called sclerosing agents. It locally
damages the endothelium of blood vessels, leading to platelets aggregation, thereby
leading to formation of blood clots as well as scar tissue which in turn reduces the
lumen of some enlarged veins.
Polidocanol is used for the treatment of uncomplicated spider veins and
uncomplicated reticular veins in the legs, a condition where the veins become large,
twisted and swollen when the vein valves do not work properly.
Major and minor side effects of Polidocanol
Injection site pain
Pain in extremity
Thrombophlebitis
Bleeding
Discoloration of the skin
Numbness
Dizziness
This injection is directly administered into the varicose veins and number of
injection given will depend on the number of varicose veins. While you are being
injected you will be constantly monitored for any adverse effects.
You should wear a compression bandage or stocking soon after the injection,
continuously for 2 to 3 days and for 2 to 3 weeks during the daytime, to prevent
clots formation.
You should also walk for 15-20 min post therapy along with wearing the
compression bandage.
Avoid heavy or strenuous exercise for 2-3 days post therapy. Long distance travel
while sitting should also be avoided (in a car or airplane).
Avoid exposure to sunlight for 2-3 days post treatment.
This medicine may cause venous thrombosis or other thrombotic events and should
be used with extreme caution in patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis,
recent major surgery, or prolonged hospitalization due to the increased risk for
developing a blood clot.
This medicine may cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock in
some patients.
This medicine has to be administered very carefully to avoid extravasation, as this
can cause severe tissue necrosis.