Becaplermin Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 18, 2024.

Applies to becaplermin topical: topical gel/jelly.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

Becaplermin works best when used with other methods for good wound care, such as not bearing weight on the leg that has the skin ulcer. Your doctor will discuss these methods with you.

Talk with your doctor whether you should continue using the medication if your skin ulcer has not reduced in size by 30% in 10 weeks or your skin ulcer has not improved after 20 weeks. If your skin ulcer does improve, your doctor may keep you on the medicine until the ulcer is completely healed.

It is important to use the proper amount and not to use more than prescribed. Using too much of this medicine may increase your risk of having cancer away from the application site. Your doctor will decide if you should continue to use this medicine based on how well your skin ulcer has healed.

If burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at the application site occurs, check with your doctor right away.

Serious side effects of becaplermin topical

Along with its needed effects, becaplermin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking becaplermin topical:

Less common side effects

• rash or redness of the skin near the skin ulcer

Incidence not known

• burning sensation at the application site
• unusually warm skin

For healthcare professionals

Applies to becaplermin topical: topical gel.

Oncologic adverse events

• Common (1% to 10%): Cancer
• Postmarketing reports: Increased death rate from systemic malignancies^[Ref]

Eight of 291 patients (2.7%) on this drug versus 2 of 200 placebo patients (1%) in 20 month clinical trial follow up studies developed cancer; types of cancer varied and all were remote from the treatment site.

Three retrospective postmarketing studies showed an increased death rate from systemic malignancies in patients who had used 3 or more tubes of becaplermin.^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Erythematous rash^[Ref]

Local

• Postmarketing reports: Burning sensation at application site, erythema at application site^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Becaplermin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer