polidokanol

Polidocanol is a nonionic surfactant with the chemical formula C12H25(OCH2CH2)nOH, where n typically ranges from 3 to 9. It is a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid or waxy solid, depending on the degree of ethoxylation. Polidocanol is soluble in water and many organic solvents.

Its primary application is as a sclerosant, a substance used to induce sclerosis, or hardening, in abnormal blood vessels or tissues. In medicine, polidocanol is injected directly into varicose veins, hemorrhoids, or lymphatic malformations. The sclerosant damages the endothelial lining of the vessel, causing it to collapse, seal, and eventually be absorbed by the body. This process is used to treat conditions such as spider veins, reticular veins, and small to medium-sized varicose veins. It is also used in the treatment of hemorrhoids and certain types of vascular malformations.

Beyond its sclerosant properties, polidocanol also possesses mild anesthetic and antipruritic (anti-itch) effects. This local anesthetic property contributes to its use in topical formulations for the relief of itching associated with conditions like eczema and dry skin. These topical preparations are available over-the-counter in some regions. The anesthetic effect is thought to be due to its interaction with sodium channels in nerve membranes, reducing nerve excitability. The combination of its sclerosant and anesthetic properties makes it a versatile agent in dermatological and vascular treatments.