Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum

Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum is a specialized prescription medicine injected by a healthcare provider to treat Dupuytren's contracture in adults and Peyronie's disease in adult men. This medicine is marketed under the brand names Xiaflex® in the United States and Xiapex® in several other countries. Depending on where you receive treatment, your healthcare provider may refer to it by one of these brand names. It specifically targets and breaks down the abnormal buildup of collagen that causes these restrictive physical conditions.

This medication is not a daily treatment; instead, it is injected in structured treatment cycles depending on your response. During each cycle, your doctor will inject the medicine directly into the affected hand cord or penile plaque, which is typically followed by a manual stretching procedure a few days later. Gentle daily hand exercises or specific penile modeling physical therapies are often recommended after the procedure to support optimal healing and flexibility.

Common side effects include localized swelling, pain, bruising, and mild bleeding around the injection site. However, you must seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, a sudden snapping sensation in your finger, or signs of a serious tear in the penile tissue.

Do not take this if you have had a severe allergic reaction to this medication in the past. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood-thinning medications, or have any other medical conditions that affect blood clotting before starting this treatment.

Your doctor will also avoid injecting this medicine into infected or inflamed skin, directly into tendons, nerves, or blood vessels, as this may increase the risk of serious injury. The injection should only be given by a healthcare professional trained in this procedure.

This injection can interact with blood thinners, which increases the likelihood of severe bruising and bleeding at the injection site. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor, as the safety of this medication in these situations is not fully established.

When used as directed as part of your treatment plan, this medicine may provide the following benefits:

• Avoids Surgery: This medication offers a non-surgical option for individuals dealing with highly restrictive physical conditions. By avoiding invasive surgery, patients typically experience a shorter recovery time and fewer surgical risks, such as permanent nerve damage or long-term scarring.
• Supports Mobility: For patients with Dupuytren's contracture, Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum helps restore hand mobility. This allows you to perform daily activities more easily, such as writing, holding objects, shaking hands, or putting on gloves.
• A Less Invasive Treatment: For men with Peyronie's disease, the treatment reduces painful or problematic curvature. This helps restore more natural physical function and significantly reduces the emotional and physical distress often associated with the condition.

• Follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication.
• Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum will be administered by a healthcare professional.
• Do not self-administer it.

Common Side Effects (Usually mild):

• Bruising, swelling, or mild bleeding at the injection site
• Pain, tenderness, or itching in the treated area
• Swollen lymph nodes in your armpit or groin
• Skin warmth or redness near the injection site
   

Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor right away):

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or trouble breathing
• A sudden popping sound or snapping sensation in the treated finger, or trouble bending it
• A popping sound, sudden severe pain, rapid swelling, or deep purple bruising of the penis
• Severe pain, numbness, or tingling in your treated arm or hand