Polidocanol is a medicine used to treat periocular venous malformations, which are abnormal blood vessel growths around the eye.
| Drug class | Sclerosing Agent |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Intralesional Injection |
| Common strength | 0.5% – 3% |
| Common Indian brands | Asklerol |
| Prescription status | Prescription (hospital use) |
What Polidocanol is used for
Polidocanol is a specialized medicine primarily used in the field of Oculoplasty to treat specific conditions affecting the area around the eye. It is an important treatment option for patients experiencing:
- Periocular venous malformations
Periocular venous malformations are abnormal collections of blood vessels located around the eye. These can sometimes cause discomfort, affect vision, or lead to cosmetic concerns. Polidocanol helps to address these malformations by causing them to shrink and eventually disappear.
At Pristine Eye Hospitals, our specialists carefully assess each patient’s condition to determine if Polidocanol is the most suitable treatment. We understand that conditions affecting the eyes can be concerning, and our team is dedicated to providing clear information and compassionate care throughout your treatment journey.
How it works
Polidocanol works as a ‘detergent sclerosant’. This means it acts like a special soap that irritates the inner lining of the abnormal blood vessels (the venous malformations) around the eye. When injected directly into these malformations, Polidocanol causes the walls of these vessels to become inflamed and stick together. Over time, this process leads to the closure and eventual scarring of the abnormal vessels, effectively shrinking and eliminating the malformation.
This targeted action helps to resolve the problem without affecting healthy surrounding tissues. Our ophthalmologists at Pristine Eye Hospitals are highly skilled in administering Polidocanol precisely to ensure its effectiveness and your safety.
How it’s used
Polidocanol is administered as a series of intralesional injections. This means the medicine is injected directly into the venous malformation itself, rather than being applied as an eye drop or ointment.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Specialist Administration: Polidocanol injections are performed only by qualified ophthalmologists or oculoplastic specialists in a hospital or clinic setting. This is never for self-use.
- Injection Series: Treatment typically involves a series of injections, not just a single one. The exact number and frequency of injections will be determined by your doctor based on the size, location, and response of your venous malformation.
- Strength: The medicine is available in strengths ranging from 0.5% to 3%. Your doctor will choose the appropriate strength for your specific condition.
- Monitoring: After each injection, your doctor will monitor your progress and plan the next steps in your treatment.
At Pristine Eye Hospitals, we ensure that every injection is performed with the utmost care and precision, prioritizing your comfort and safety throughout the entire treatment process. Your doctor will explain the procedure in detail and address any concerns you may have.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Asklerol
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Good to know
Prescription eye medicine — use only as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or a prescription. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. This is given only by specialists in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Precautions & side effects
Polidocanol is a powerful medicine that requires careful handling and administration. Here are important precautions and considerations:
- Specialist Use: This medicine must only be administered by a qualified ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist who has experience with intralesional injections for periocular conditions. It is not for general use or self-administration.
- Prescription Medicine: Polidocanol is a prescription eye medicine. It should only be used as directed by your ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or reuse an old prescription.
- Hospital/Clinic Setting: Injections are given only in a hospital or clinic setting under medical supervision.
- General Warning: This page provides general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
Your doctor at Pristine Eye Hospitals will discuss all potential risks and benefits with you before starting treatment. It’s crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history, including any allergies, other medications you are taking, or pre-existing health conditions, to ensure the safest possible treatment.
Understanding Periocular Venous Malformations
Periocular venous malformations are abnormal collections of blood vessels that develop around the eye. These are not cancerous but can sometimes grow larger over time. They are often present from birth but may become more noticeable later in life. Depending on their size and location, these malformations can lead to various issues, such as swelling, discomfort, changes in vision, or cosmetic concerns. While they might not always cause symptoms, when they do, they can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It’s important to understand that these are different from ‘pink eye’ or other common eye infections. They are structural abnormalities that require specialized medical attention. At Pristine Eye Hospitals, our team of oculoplastic specialists has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating these complex conditions, using advanced techniques like Polidocanol injections to help patients achieve better health and comfort.
If you notice any unusual swelling, discoloration, or changes around your eye, especially if it seems to worsen or affect your vision, it is crucial to seek prompt medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent further complications and improve outcomes. Our doctors will perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging tests, to accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
General Advice for Eye Care and Hygiene
While Polidocanol is an injected medicine and not a typical eye drop or ointment for daily use, maintaining good eye hygiene and general health practices is always beneficial, especially when undergoing any medical treatment involving your eyes. Always follow any specific post-procedure care instructions given by your doctor after your Polidocanol injections. In general, here are some helpful tips for maintaining healthy eyes:
- Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or the area around them, especially if you need to apply any prescribed post-injection care.
- Avoid Rubbing Eyes: Try to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can irritate them and potentially introduce germs.
- Cleanliness: Keep the area around your eyes clean as advised by your doctor.
- Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Adhere strictly to all instructions provided by your ophthalmologist regarding post-injection care, follow-up appointments, and any other medications or practices.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and consider protective eyewear during activities that might pose a risk to your eyes.
- Balanced Diet: Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for eye health.
- Regular Eye Check-ups: Even after treatment, regular eye check-ups are important to monitor your overall eye health and detect any new issues early.
Remember, your eyes are precious, and taking good care of them is vital for your overall well-being. If you have any concerns about your eye health, do not hesitate to contact Pristine Eye Hospitals.
When to Seek Medical Help
After receiving Polidocanol injections, your doctor will provide specific instructions on what to expect and when to seek further medical attention. It is important to be vigilant and contact your ophthalmologist immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms. While some mild swelling or bruising at the injection site might be normal, you should watch out for:
- Severe Pain: Any intense or worsening pain around the eye or injection site.
- Sudden Vision Changes: Any sudden blurriness, loss of vision, double vision, or seeing flashes of light.
- Excessive Swelling or Redness: Significant or rapidly increasing swelling, redness, or warmth around the eye that seems abnormal.
- Discharge: Any unusual discharge from the eye or injection site.
- Fever or Chills: Signs of a general infection.
- Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like difficulty breathing, widespread rash, or severe dizziness.
These symptoms could indicate a complication or an adverse reaction that requires immediate medical evaluation. Do not wait for your next scheduled appointment if you experience any of these. At Pristine Eye Hospitals, your health and safety are our top priority. Our medical team is always ready to assist you and provide guidance in case of any urgent concerns. Always keep the contact information for your doctor or the hospital readily available.
Frequently asked questions
What is Polidocanol used for?
Polidocanol is used to treat periocular venous malformations, which are abnormal collections of blood vessels located around the eye.
How does Polidocanol work?
Polidocanol works as a 'detergent sclerosant'. It irritates the inner lining of the abnormal blood vessels, causing them to inflame, stick together, and eventually close off and shrink.
What are the common Indian brands of Polidocanol?
In India, Polidocanol is available under the brand name Asklerol.
How is Polidocanol administered?
Polidocanol is given as a series of intralesional injections, meaning it is injected directly into the venous malformation. It is administered by a specialist in a hospital or clinic setting and is never for self-use.
Is a prescription needed for Polidocanol?
Yes, Polidocanol is a prescription eye medicine and must only be used as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. It is for hospital use only.
What are the key precautions to take with Polidocanol?
Polidocanol must only be administered by a qualified ophthalmologist or oculoplastic specialist. It is a prescription medicine for hospital use only and is never for self-administration. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions and inform them of your complete medical history.
References
- Polidocanol monotherapy for a superficial orbital venous malformation in a horse – PMC
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.