Home Drug Guide Sinecatechins

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Sinecatechins

Brand Names Veregen

Classification

Therapeutic: Antiviral

Pharmacological: Topical catechin-based agent

FDA Approved Indications

  • Genital warts (condylomata acuminata) in immunocompetent adults

Mechanism of Action

Sinecatechins contain catechins derived from green tea leaves, which have antiviral, antioxidant, and immune-modulating properties. They inhibit the replication of papillomavirus and enhance immune response to clear warts.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Apply a thin layer to the affected area three times daily for up to 16 weeks.

Pediatric: Not approved for use in pediatric populations.

Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustments; monitor for skin reactions.

Renal Impairment: No specific adjustments indicated.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustments indicated.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption with topical application.

Distribution: Localized to application site.

Metabolism: Metabolized locally at the site of application.

Excretion: Not fully characterized; assumed to be via skin and mucous membranes.

Half Life: Not applicable due to topical, local action.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with immunodeficiency or underlying skin conditions. Avoid contact with unaffected skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Localized skin irritation or erythema (Common)
  • Itching or burning sensation at application site (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Severe skin reactions or allergic contact dermatitis (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug-drug interactions reported.

Drug-Food Interactions

  • No known interactions.

Drug-Herb Interactions

  • Limited data; avoid concurrent use with other topical agents that may irritate skin.

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor skin at application sites for irritation or allergic reactions.

Diagnoses:

  • Impaired skin integrity related to topical skin reactions.

Implementation: Instruct on proper application technique, hygiene, and duration of therapy.

Evaluation: Assess reduction in wart size and number, skin reaction severity, patient adherence.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Apply as directed, avoiding unaffected skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
  • Wash hands before and after application.
  • Report severe skin reactions or allergic responses.
  • Complete the full course of therapy.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • None.

Genetic Factors: Not applicable.

Lab Test Interference: Not known to interfere with laboratory tests.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Excessive skin irritation, prolonged erythema.

Treatment: Remove application, supportive care, symptomatic treatment.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions for the duration of the labeled shelf life.

🛡️ 5 Critical Medication Safety Tips for Nurses

1

Triple-Check High-Risk Medications

Always have another nurse verify insulin, heparin, warfarin, and chemotherapy drugs. These "high-alert" medications cause the most serious errors. Check concentration, dose calculation, and pump settings twice.

2

Know Look-Alike, Sound-Alike Drugs

Common mix-ups: hydromorphone/morphine, Celebrex/Celexa, Zyprexa/Zyrtec. Always use BOTH generic and brand names, read labels twice, and use barcode scanning when available. One wrong letter can be fatal.

3

Assess Before AND After Giving Meds

Check vitals before cardiac meds, pain levels before analgesics, and blood glucose before insulin. Always reassess within 30 minutes to evaluate effectiveness and watch for adverse reactions.

4

Watch for Drug Interactions

Common dangerous combinations: warfarin + aspirin (bleeding), ACE inhibitors + potassium (hyperkalemia), digoxin + diuretics (toxicity). Always check drug interactions before administering new medications.

5

Educate Your Patients

Teach patients medication names, purposes, major side effects, and what to report. Informed patients catch errors and improve compliance. Always encourage questions - an educated patient is a safer patient.

⚡ Remember: When in doubt, don't give it out! It's always safer to double-check than regret later.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This drug guide is for educational purposes only and is NOT intended for clinical use. Always consult current prescribing information, healthcare providers, and institutional protocols before administering any medication. Do not use this information for patient care decisions.