Indications
Hyaluronidase is an enzyme injection used to help other injected fluids or medicines spread and be absorbed more quickly. It is used to speed up the absorption of fluids given under the skin (hypodermoclysis) when a vein cannot be used, to improve the spread of local anaesthetics (for example in eye surgery), to help the body absorb leaked fluid after an infusion escapes from a vein (extravasation), and in some cosmetic clinics to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers.
How It Works
Hyaluronic acid is a natural gel-like substance that holds the tissues under the skin together. Hyaluronidase temporarily breaks down this substance, making the tissue more open so that injected fluid or medicine can spread and be absorbed faster. The tissue rebuilds the hyaluronic acid within a day or two.
Dosage and Administration
Hyaluronidase is given by a doctor or nurse as an injection under the skin or into tissue, usually mixed with or given just before another injection. The dose depends on the purpose and is set by the doctor. It must not be injected into a vein.
Interactions
It may increase the spread and side effects of local anaesthetics and other drugs injected with it. Large doses of Salicylates (such as Aspirin), corticosteroids, antihistamines and Oestrogens may reduce its effect. It should not be mixed with Dopamine, Adrenaline or other drugs that are unstable with it, unless the product information allows it.
Contraindications
Do not use in people allergic to hyaluronidase (including bee stings, as some forms come from animal sources), into areas with infection or cancer, into a vein, or around bites and stings to speed up spread.
Side Effects
Redness, mild pain, swelling or itching at the injection site may occur. Allergic reactions are uncommon. When used with large volumes of fluid under the skin, fluid overload can occur, especially in children and older people.
Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, rash over the body, dizziness or fainting, or spreading redness, heat and pain at the injection site.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is little information on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should be used only when the doctor judges the benefit to outweigh any risk.
Precautions and Warnings
A skin test may be done before use to check for allergy. Care is needed in premature babies, infants and older adults receiving fluids under the skin, because fluid and salt balance must be watched. It should not be used to reduce swelling from bites or stings.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely as it is given by health professionals. Too much may cause local reactions, chills, nausea, dizziness or low blood pressure; treatment is supportive.
Therapeutic Class
Enzyme, tissue permeability modifier.
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze. Hospital use; keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.