Trypsin, Balsam Peru, and Castor Oil

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 27, 2023.

Pronunciation

(TRIP sin, BAL sam pe RUE, & KAS tor oyl)

Index Terms

Balsam Peru, Castor Oil, and Trypsin
Castor Oil, Trypsin, and Balsam Peru

Dosage Forms

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product

Aerosol, spray, topical:

TBC: Trypsin 0.1 mg, balsam Peru 72.5 mg, and castor oil 650 mg per 0.82 mL (60 g [DSC], 120 g [DSC])

Brand Names: U.S.

TBC [DSC]

Pharmacologic Category

Protectant, Topical

Pharmacology

Trypsin may be used to debride necrotic tissue; balsam peru stimulates circulation at the wound site and may be mildly bactericidal; castor oil improves epithelialization, acts as a protectant covering and helps reduce pain

Use: Labeled Indications

Granulex: Treatment of decubitus ulcers, varicose ulcers, debridement of eschar, dehiscent wounds and sunburn; promote wound healing; reduce odor from necrotic wounds

Vasolex: Treatment of decubitus ulcers, varicose ulcers, and dehiscent wounds; promote wound healing; reduce odor from necrotic wounds

Contraindications

There are no contraindications listed in the manufacturer's labeling.

Dosing: Adult

Dermatologic conditions: Topical: Apply a minimum of twice daily or as often as necessary

Dosing: Geriatric

Refer to adult dosing.

Administration

Do not apply on fresh arterial clots.

Aerosol spray: Shake can well before spraying; hold can upright ~12” from area to be treated, and spray and coat wound rapidly (temporary stinging may occur). May be used with appropriate wet dressing if needed or wound may be left unbandaged. To remove, wash gently with water.

Ointment: Apply a thin film over the area being treated. May be used with appropriate dressing if needed or wound may be left unbandaged. To remove, wash gently with appropriate wound cleanser.

Storage

Aerosol spray: Store at room temperature; do not expose to fire, open flame, or temperatures >120°F.

Ointment: Store at 25°C (77°F): excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Do not freeze.

Drug Interactions

There are no known significant interactions.

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.

Frequency not defined.

Central nervous system: Transient stinging of the skin (at application site)

Warnings/Precautions

Disease-related concerns:

• Hemoglobin deficiency: Wound healing may be retarded in the presence of hemoglobin deficiency.

• Zinc deficiency: Wound healing may be retarded in the presence of zinc deficiency.

Dosage form specific issues:

• Aerosol: Flammable; do not expose to high temperatures or flame.

Other warnings/precautions:

• Appropriate use: For external use only; avoid contact with eyes. Do not apply to fresh arterial clots.

Patient Education

What is this drug used for?

• It is used to promote healing of skin ulcers and wounds.

• It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Stinging

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Severe skin irritation

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine's uses from the patient education leaflet and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information available about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please speak with your healthcare provider and review the entire patient education leaflet.