Hirudoid Gel 50g is a topical medicine containing heparinoid 0.3% w/w. It is used for the treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis and for the soothing relief of superficial bruising and haematoma.

When applied to the skin, heparinoid acts locally to help relieve pain and inflammation associated with these conditions. Hirudoid is supplied as a colourless topical gel in a 50g tube.

The gel can be applied in a thin layer to the affected area up to four times a day, depending on the size of the area being treated.

Hirudoid Gel is a Pharmacy (P) medicine. A pharmacist may provide advice about its appropriate use where required.

Patient Information Leaflet

Main ingredients: Heparinoid 0.3% w/w, equivalent to 25,000 Units per 100g of gel. Excipients: Isopropyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, propylene glycol (E1520), purified water, sodium hydroxide.

Hirudoid Gel is for external use only and is used for superficial thrombophlebitis and the soothing relief of superficial bruising and haematoma.

Adults, elderly people and children over 5 years: Apply approximately 5 to 15 cm (2 to 6 inches) of gel as a thin layer to the affected area. The amount required will depend on the size of the area being treated.

Apply the gel up to four times a day. Do not exceed this dose.

Before first use, pierce the seal of the tube using the spiked top of the cap.

If the affected area is tender to touch, the gel may be applied to the skin surrounding the affected area.

Wash your hands after applying the gel unless your hands are the area being treated.

Do not swallow the gel.

If your symptoms do not improve or become worse, speak to a doctor.

Always use Hirudoid Gel as described in the Patient Information Leaflet or as advised by a doctor or pharmacist.

Do not use Hirudoid Gel if you are allergic to heparinoid or any of the other ingredients.

Do not use the gel:

• On broken skin.
• On large areas of skin.
• On or near sensitive areas such as the mouth, eyes or ano-genital region.
• In children under 5 years of age.

Hirudoid Gel is for external use only. Do not swallow it and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Fire hazard: Do not smoke or go near naked flames while using this medicine. Clothing, bedding, dressings and other fabrics that have been in contact with the gel can burn more easily. Washing fabrics may reduce product build-up but may not remove it completely.

The gel contains 0.5% w/w propylene glycol.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or may take any other medicines. No specific medicine interactions are identified in the SmPC.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine.

Hirudoid Gel is not expected to affect your ability to drive or use machines.

If you accidentally swallow some gel, it is unlikely to be serious, but you should contact your doctor or a hospital casualty department.

If your symptoms do not improve or become worse, seek medical advice.

If you develop a rash after using Hirudoid Gel, stop using it and tell your doctor or pharmacist.