absorbable gelatin sponge, USP

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The gelatin sponge is designed to be biodegradable and absorbed by the body over time. It undergoes enzymatic breakdown and is gradually replaced by connective tissue during healing.

The absorbable nature of the gelatin sponge eliminates the need for surgical removal, reducing patient discomfort and the risk of complications associated with non-absorbable materials. 

It’s important to note that the spectrum of absorbable gelatin sponge, USP, is mainly focused on its role in achieving hemostasis and supporting wound healing in surgical and clinical settings. Its actions are localized to the site of application and do not have systemic effects. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Hives  

Difficult breathing  

Abscess formation  

Blood clots  

Foreign body reaction 

Fluid encapsulation 

Swelling on lips/face/tongue/throat 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications 

Contraindicated in people allergic to porcine collagen 

Cautions 

• Infection 
• Postpartum bleeding 
• Use sterilized products 
• Once used, they cannot be sterilized again 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

gelatin is well absorbed topically, but its effect on pregnant females is unknown 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the excretion of drug in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

An absorbable gelatin sponge acts as a hemostatic agent, meaning it promotes blood clotting and helps control bleeding. When the sponge comes into contact with blood or body fluids, it absorbs them, swells, and forms a gel-like matrix. This matrix can help create a mechanical barrier and apply pressure to the bleeding site, forming a stable blood clot.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

The gelatin sponge forms a physical barrier that can help prevent further bleeding by providing pressure to the site. An absorbable gelatin sponge assists wound healing by providing a scaffold for tissue regeneration. As the sponge gradually degrades, it is replaced by connective tissue, supporting the natural healing process. 

gelatin sponge is designed to be absorbed and biodegraded by the body over time. It undergoes enzymatic breakdown and is gradually replaced by newly formed tissue. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

absorbable gelatin sponge, USP, is not a pharmacological agent that undergoes pharmacokinetic processes like absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therefore, it does not have pharmacokinetic parameters or a specific pharmacokinetic profile. 

Instead of pharmacokinetics, the characteristics and behavior of absorbable gelatin sponge are related to its physical properties and interactions within the local tissue environment. The sponge is designed to be absorbed and biodegraded over time, and the body’s natural processes mediate its degradation. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

An absorbable gelatin sponge is applied directly to the bleeding site or where hemostasis is desired. It is typically in direct contact with the bleeding tissue or wound bed. 

Once applied to the bleeding site, gentle compression may be applied using instruments or manual pressure to enhance its hemostatic effects. The compression helps the gelatin sponge adhere to the tissue and promotes the formation of a stable blood clot. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: absorbable gelatin sponge USP 

Pronounced: ab-zorb-abel gel-a-tin spuhnj 

Why do we use absorbable gelatin sponge? 

The primary use of an absorbable gelatin sponge is to promote hemostasis, which means it helps control bleeding. When applied to a bleeding site, the gelatin sponge absorbs blood and forms a gel-like matrix. This matrix helps create a mechanical barrier, provides pressure to the site, and supports the formation of a blood clot, aiding in the cessation of bleeding.