Asclera

Common Brands Asclera, Varithena
Drug Class
Sclerosant
Controlled Substance Classification
Not a controlled medication
Generic Status
Lower-cost generic available
Availability
Prescription only
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
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Medically reviewed by Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP last update on 20/12/2023

Overview

Asclera is a medication that is attributed for varicose veins and telangiectasias of spider veins. It has an active ingredient polidocanol which is classified as a sclerosing agent and causes damage to the endothelial cells and adjacent tissues of the veins before the vein disappears with time. 

This drug is used in a procedure called sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at treating troublesome veins and their related symptoms of discomfort, swelling, and heaviness.

Asclera is usually given by a qualified health personnel like a vascular surgeon or dermatologist through vein sclerotherapy, where the drug is injected into the lesions.

 The action of the drug consists of causing an inflammatory reaction of the inner coat of the blood vessels leading to closure of the vessel. Subsequently, the veins treated get incorporated into the system and the veins fade away improving the skin and alleviating symptoms.

DRUG STATUS

Availability

Prescription only

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy