The article was professionally consulted by Dr. Lan Huong - Pharmacy Department - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital
Alpha chymotrypsin or chymotrypsin is an enzyme-based anti-inflammatory drug that is often used to reduce inflammation after trauma, surgery, or burns. So what are the effects of Alpha chymotrypsin? Follow the article below .
1. What are the effects of Alpha chymotrypsin?
What is Alpha chymotrypsin? Alpha chymotrypsin is a protein-degrading enzyme, formulated by activating chymotrypsinogen extracted from beef pancreas.
Chymotrypsin participates in the process of dissolving fibrin formed around the inflamed area, thereby preventing tissue damage during inflammation.
Chymotrypsin is used to reduce inflammation and soft tissue edema caused by abscesses or trauma and to help loosen secretions of the upper respiratory tract in patients with asthma, bronchitis, lung diseases and sinusitis.
Alpha chymotrypsin after intramuscular injection will be distributed quickly and immediately to the tissues, especially the lens, inflamed tissues, hematoma tissue (due to injury or surgery), to have anti-inflammatory and thrombolytic effects.
The drug is indicated for use in cataract surgery support in adults aged 20-60 years (injection) and treatment of edema after trauma, surgery and burns (injection and oral)
2. How to use Alpha chymotrypsin
Alpha chymotrypsin is prepared in many forms such as oral tablets, oral dispersible tablets, powder for oral solution, solution, soft capsules, powder for injection. Use Alpha chymotrypsin according to the instructions on the product packaging.
Dosage depends on each dosage form and different subjects
Alpha chymotrypsin intramuscular injection
Dosage
Support cataract surgery: when removing the lens in the capsule or posterior chamber of the eye, it can be washed with 1-2ml of 1:5000 dilution. Then, wash Alpha chymotrypsin with at least 2ml of the unused dilution, wait about 2-4 minutes after performing the procedure.
To minimize tissue damage in burn patients, a combination of chymotrypsin and trypsin at a ratio of 6:1 can be used with a total dose of 200,000 USP units 4 times/day, using the drug for 10 days.
To treat post-traumatic or post-surgical edema and to help loosen secretions in the upper respiratory tract, Alpha chymotrypsin can be used intramuscularly at a dose of 5000 USP units, 1 to 3 times/day
How to use:
Drug preparation: Draw 1ml of sterile water for injection in a solvent tube, inject into the lyophilized injection vial, shake until the powder is completely dissolved. Alpha chymotrypsin is used for intramuscular injection
Alpha chymotrypsin orally
Dosage:
Adults take 2 tablets/time x 3-4 times/day or sublingually take 2 tablets/time x 2-3 times/day.
How to use:
Take with or without food or sublingually
There is currently insufficient data on the dosage of chymotrypsin for children
Use Alpha chymotrypsin exactly as directed by your doctor, do not overdose, use less or use longer than prescribed. You may stop using the drug if you see any new unusual signs appear or the condition does not improve after 7 days.
Absolutely do not abuse the drug for too long. This does not make the patient's condition better but also increases the risk of unwanted effects.
3. Contraindications
Allergy to the ingredients of the drug
Do not use Chymotrypsin for patients with reduced Alpha-1 antitrypsin. Note that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially emphysema and nephrotic syndrome, are at risk of reduced alpha-1 antitrypsin.
Use Alpha chymotrypsin with caution in patients with hereditary blood clotting disorders such as hemophilia, blood clotting disorders, taking anticoagulants, about to undergo surgery, allergies to proteins, pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, and stomach ulcers.
4. Unwanted effects when using Alpha chymotrypsin
Some unwanted effects that may occur when using Alpha chymotrypsin include:
- When injected intramuscularly: the injection site may be swollen, inflamed,... sometimes severe allergic reactions occur
- When used to support cataract surgery: corneal edema, increased intraocular pressure, uveitis but not too severe
- In some rare cases, Alpha chymotrypsin can cause allergic reactions when taking the drug. Symptoms of the disease include difficulty breathing, itching, swelling of the lips or throat, loss of consciousness, and even death.
- Some rare digestive disorders: burning tongue, red tongue, bloating, abdominal heaviness, constipation, diarrhea or nausea.
Before prescribing a drug, the doctor always considers the benefits and effectiveness of Alpha chymotrypsin more than the risk of side effects. However, in some cases, when using Alpha chymotrypsin, unwanted effects may still occur. Therefore, when there are unusual symptoms, especially when there is a serious allergic reaction with accompanying signs such as severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, rash, swelling or itching of the face, throat, tongue, etc. In this case, the patient needs to immediately notify the doctor or nurse for immediate medical intervention.
5. Some notes when using Alpha chymotrypsin
Some notes when using Alpha chymotrypsin include:
- Inform your history of allergy to Alpha chymotrypsin or any other allergies. Alpha chymotrypsin may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other serious problems.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, including prescription, nonprescription, herbal, and dietary supplements.
- Do not use the drug if you have a history of mild hypersensitivity reactions.
- For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant in the near future, there are not enough studies to determine the risks of using the drug during pregnancy. Before using Alpha chymotrypsin, always consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.
If you miss a dose of Alpha Chymotrypsin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than the recommended dose. Overdosing on Alpha Chymotrypsin or swallowing it can cause serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, etc.
5. Drug interactions
Drug interactions can decrease the effectiveness of Alpha chymotrypsin, or increase the risk of unwanted side effects. Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including nonprescription drugs, vitamins, prescription drugs, and herbal products. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your doctor's approval.
6. How to store Alpha chymotrypsin
Store Alpha chymotrypsin at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Read the instructions for storing Alpha chymotrypsin on the package carefully, or ask your pharmacist.
Keep Alpha chymotrypsin out of reach of children and pets. When the medicine has expired or is damaged and cannot be used anymore, throw it away and dispose of it properly. Do not dispose of Alpha chymotrypsin in the environment such as drains or toilets unless instructed to do so.
Consult your local waste disposal company or pharmacist for advice on how to safely dispose of Alpha chymotrypsin to help protect the environment.
References:
Instructions for use of Alpha Choay (Alpha chymotrypsin 21 microkatals)
Instructions for use of Vintrypsine (Alpha chymotrypsin 5000 IU)
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