Bécaplermine gel (Regranex ® gel)

Abstract

Becaplermine gel (Regranex) is an hydrogel which contains 100 microg of Platelet Derived Growth Factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB) per gram. Regranex is presented in 15-gram multidose tubes. It has been approved as adjuvant treatment for neuropathic diabetic ulcerations of less than 5 cm2, extending into the subcutaneous tIssue, in the absence of ischemia, in conjunction with a standardised program of appropriate wound care, (control of infection, sharp debridement, provision of a moist environment and avoidance of pressure on the wound). PDGF-BB promotes cutaneous wound healing by increasing proliferation and migration of dermal fibroblasts and extracellular matrix deposition. PDGF also promotes chemotaxis of neutrophils, monocytes and smooth muscle cells in wounds. Topical application of rhPDGF-BB speeds wound healing and promotes granulation tIssue formation, synthesis of extracellular matrix and the inflammatory phase of the wound healing process in healthy and healing-impaired animal models. In clinical trials in humans, accelarated healing has been demonstrated in patients with lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers and decubitus sores by increasing granulation tIssue formation and epithelialization. Local toxicity studies in humans were negative (repeated becaplermin gel application under occlusion to intact or abraded skin, dermal sensitization tests). Pharmacokinetic studies in humans have shown that systemic absorption after topical applications was minimal. In trials, systemic and local tolerance were excellent. Reported adverse effects were similar in incidence and in nature in all groups. The 0.01% Regranex gel is safe and easy to use, with single daily application. It is currently the only commercially available topical growth factor for use in cutaneous wound healing.