Albocresil

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Albocresil

Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Albocresil

Property Description
Active ingredient Policresulen (INN)
Forms Concentrated solution, Vaginal solution, Pessary, Gel
Pharmacological class Antiseptic agent, Local Hemostatic agent
General purpose Selective tissue cleaning and regeneration
Origin Synthetic polymolecular organic acid

Defining Albocresil: Type and Pharmacological Class

Albocresil is a highly recognized trade name for the topical medication whose core active ingredient is Policresulen (INN), a synthetic polymolecular organic acid derivative utilized for the localized treatment of skin and mucous membrane lesions. The compound is distinctive due to its polymeric structure, which underpins its strong acidic nature. Within the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification, Policresulen is noted for its dual function as an antiseptic agent and a local hemostatic agent. Pharmacological studies have consistently confirmed its localized efficacy as a tissue-selective surface agent.

Composition and Available Pharmaceutical Forms

Policresulen is formulated as a single-component product and is supplied in multiple pharmaceutical preparations designed for strict topical and vaginal administration. Available forms typically include a highly concentrated solution (often requiring dilution), ready-to-use vaginal solutions, pessaries (vaginal suppositories), and a gel for direct application to mucosal surfaces. This wide range of forms ensures that the strong, localized action of the drug can be precisely targeted to the required site, minimizing systemic exposure and focusing its tissue-selective properties where needed.

General Purpose of Selective Coagulation

The primary general purpose of this medicine is to promote the regeneration and re-epithelialization of damaged tissue by initiating selective protein coagulation. This unique mechanism causes the localized denaturation of proteins specifically within devitalized, infected, or pathologically altered cells, which facilitates their effective elimination. Concurrently, it exerts a broad-spectrum antimicrobial action against common local pathogens. This highly targeted action is clinically recognized for its ability to clean and disinfect the tissue surface and to control minor superficial bleeding, which is a key requirement for successful tissue recovery.

Regulatory References

  1. Policresulen Clinical Studies
  2. EMA Public Assessment Report (EPAR)

What side effects are possible with Albocresil?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Policresulen, the active ingredient in Albocresil, is primarily characterized by localized reactions at the application site. Adverse effects are classified by their frequency, as documented in official regulatory sources, largely affecting the Reproductive System and Breast Disorders class.


Documented Adverse Reactions by Frequency

Frequency Category Adverse Reaction System-Organ Class
Very Common (ge 1/10) Dryness in the vagina Reproductive System
Common (ge 1/100 to < 1/10) Burning sensation in the vagina, Discharge of shreds of mucous membrane Reproductive System
Not Known Systemic allergic reactions, Anaphylaxis, Vaginal candidiasis, Urticaria, Pruritus vulvae Immune System, Skin, Reproductive System

The discharge of shreds of mucous membrane is officially noted as a common and expected result of the medicine's therapeutic action, which involves the selective coagulation and elimination of devitalized tissue.


Serious Reactions and Safety Constraints

The potential for systemic allergic reactions, including the serious adverse reaction of anaphylaxis, is documented, although the frequency is classified as Not Known.

Regulatory documentation also includes specific safety constraints. If the product is swallowed by mistake, there is a risk of an erosive effect on the mouth, throat, and oesophagus due to its acidic properties. Furthermore, if severe local irritation occurs, the product should be discontinued.


Population-Specific Considerations

Official labels advise that use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should occur only when strictly indicated. Specific caution is noted for pregnant women to avoid cervical swabbing techniques, especially in advanced stages, due to the risk of triggering labor. The medicine is not indicated for use in postmenopausal women due to a lack of clinical experience in this patient group.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory documentation for Policresulen (Albocresil) defines the overdose profile by addressing both the intended topical application and scenarios of accidental oral exposure.


Documented Overdose Manifestations

  • For the intended topical use, government-authorized labeling states that no cases of overdose have been reported.
  • The sole documented presentation associated with overexposure is an erosive effect on the mouth, throat, and oesophagus, which occurs only in the event of accidental oral ingestion.

Physiological Systems Affected

The documented manifestations specifically impact the mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal system, including the mouth, throat, and oesophagus, following accidental ingestion.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

The regulatory protocol mandates immediate and urgent intervention for accidental oral ingestion. The person must immediately drink plenty of water to help dilute the compound. Following this action, the individual must be medically examined and treated as quickly as possible to address and manage any potential corrosive tissue damage. A medical professional should be consulted to determine all necessary further steps. The official documentation does not specify the existence of a known antidote for Policresulen.

Therapeutic Uses of Albocresil

What Albocresil Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The medication is commonly used to assist with healing and the management of symptoms associated with inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the vagina and cervix, such as cervical erosion (ectropion), various forms of vaginitis, and pressure sores.

The primary therapeutic domains include gynaecological tissue support, anorectal discomfort (hemorrhoids and anal fissures), and supportive care for oral and mucosal lesions (mouth ulcers and gingivitis). It is applied in situations involving localized tissue damage, inflammation, or abnormal discharge, offering supportive therapeutic benefit that contributes to improved healing and supports patients in easing the overall burden of distressing symptoms.

“A key benefit is often described as supporting local cleanliness and aiding the natural healing processes in damaged superficial tissue.”

A relevant benefit in proctology is its ability to assist in managing localized superficial bleeding often associated with fragile or compromised anorectal tissue. This symptomatic relief helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes. It is commonly used when symptoms cluster into patterns of localized pain and superficial tissue injury.


Quick Fact: Relief for Mucosal Damage

The medication is commonly used to help manage symptoms and promote re-epithelialization in conditions where functional stability becomes affected by acute or recurrent tissue damage.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH DailyMed instruction for Policresulen

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility for using Albocresil (Policresulen) is strictly governed by official regulatory documentation, defining specific populations who are permitted, restricted, or absolutely prohibited from use.

Populations for Whom Use is Prohibited (Contraindicated)

Category Regulatory Status
Hypersensitivity Contraindicated in patients with known sensitivity to Policresulen or any excipients.
Application Site Must not be used in the eyes due to its highly acidic, corrosive properties.
Pregnancy (Cervical Swabbing) Contraindicated for swabbing the cervix, particularly during the advanced third trimester of pregnancy.

Restricted and Non-Established Use

Category Regulatory Status
Age Groups Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age, as safety and efficacy have not been studied. Use is also not indicated for postmenopausal women.
Pregnancy/Lactation Classified as conditional use. May be used only where strictly indicated after medical consideration of the risks.
Menstruation Treatment must be stopped during the menstrual period.

Regulatory documents define adult populations as the core user group, provided they do not have the stated contraindications. Use is not established for minors and the elderly due to insufficient clinical data.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Policresulen (Albocresil) is defined by its topical administration and documented minimal systemic absorption, resulting in a focus on local interference rather than systemic drug-drug interactions. The interaction profile is solely constrained by the requirements for safe local application.


Local Pharmacodynamic Restrictions

The most significant official restriction concerns the local application environment. Due to the potential for interaction which cannot be ruled out, the co-administration of other local medicinal products or treatments at the same site is restricted. This functional constraint means that agents must not be used simultaneously; regulatory text specifies the avoidance of using more than two different drugs at the same place at the same time. This is classified as a mandatory avoidance/restriction based on pharmacodynamic considerations at the application site.


Interaction with Non-Medicinal Substances

An official restriction exists regarding the use of cleansing agents. The regulatory label advises against the use of irritating soap or other irritating cleansing agents on the affected area during the course of treatment. This is considered a drug-substance interaction related to the local treatment environment.


Systemic Pharmacokinetic Interactions

No systemic drug-drug interactions are documented in official regulatory sources. No information documents interactions involving cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes or drug transporters (P-gp), which is consistent with the minimal systemic exposure of the product. The interaction profile is solely constrained by the requirements for safe local application.

Mechanism of Action

Selective Protein Coagulation and Tissue Cleansing

The mechanism is based on a localized, rapid physicochemical interaction where the poly-acid molecule, Policresulen, causes the immediate denaturation and precipitation of proteins exclusively within necrotic or pathologically altered cells. This action is selective because healthy epithelial cells, possessing intact membranes, resist the interaction. This coagulative necrosis facilitates the physical removal of compromised tissue by forming an eschar, initiating a process of chemical debridement that facilitates the removal of pathological tissue from the surface.

Local Hemostasis and Microbial Environment Control

The strong acidic property provides two simultaneous physiological effects. Firstly, it induces mechanical hemostasis by rapidly coagulating plasma proteins and blood components at the site of minor capillary injury, forming a physical plug that seals superficial bleeding. Secondly, the extremely low local pH and the resulting protein coagulation exert a broad-spectrum, non-specific antimicrobial effect, severely disrupting the structure and viability of local pathogens.

Indirect Stimulation of Tissue Regeneration

The overall mechanistic cascade contributes to the physiological processes of repair by promoting the elimination of physical and biological impediments. By achieving rapid tissue cleansing and local control of superficial bleeding and microbial load, the mechanism indirectly stimulates the underlying healthy tissue to proceed with the proliferative phase of wound healing. This preparation of the wound bed supports enhanced local microcirculation (reactive hyperemia) and supports the natural processes of re-epithelialization and tissue repair.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Albocresil: Official Administration Guidelines

Albocresil (Policresulen) is a medication approved for localized external use only, and its administration is strictly defined by the specific pharmaceutical form. It is explicitly mandated in the labeling that the product must not be taken orally.


Approved Routes and Standard Dosing

The routes of administration are restricted to the local application site, with specific forms designed for each use:

Route of Administration Dosage Form Standard Regimen Treatment Duration Limit
Vaginal Pessary (90 mg) 1 pessary, once every two days. Not more than 9 days
Buccal/Oral Rinse Solution Up to 4 times daily (after meals). Not more than 7 days
Vaginal Concentrated Solution Applied by a healthcare professional (swabbing) 1 to 2 times. As directed by professional

Key Procedural and Temporal Constraints

Administration requires specific steps to ensure correct application:

  • Pessary Preparation: The vaginal pessary must be moistened with water before insertion to facilitate placement. It should be inserted high into the vagina, preferably at bedtime, and a sanitary pad must be used.
  • Buccal Use: The solution is for rinsing only; it must be spit out and not swallowed.
  • Menstruation: Treatment with the vaginal forms must be stopped during menstruation.

For pediatric use, children under 12 using the oral rinse should be supervised, and consultation is required for children under 2 years of age.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Policresulen

This section provides an overview of the types of official research that have evaluated Policresulen, focusing on study structures, outcomes evaluated, and limitations in the evidence base. This is not clinical advice, and research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly; findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.


Evidence for Use in Gynaecological Conditions

The research for these uses included the execution of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and other comparative clinical studies. This research was studied for conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations such as cervical erosion and specific symptoms related to Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).

Researchers primarily examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, monitoring patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort such as vaginal dryness, burning sensations, and pain during activity. For these conditions, some controlled studies reported patterns observed in the groups receiving Policresulen, which contribute to understanding symptom patterns measured during the study period. Research highlights that evidence is limited to short-term changes.


Evidence for Use in Anorectal and Proctological Conditions

The research base for conditions like hemorrhoids and anal fissures largely was studied for Policresulen in combination with an anesthetic agent. This body of research included multicenter clinical studies alongside some controlled trials. The studies monitored outcomes related to physical discomfort, assessing localized symptoms such as pain intensity and bleeding, as well as patient and physician ratings of the outcomes describing episodic or acute changes.

Evidence derived from settings with varying symptom burdens show patterns related to the patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort in some multicenter studies. Conversely, in specific controlled studies—such as those research exploring short-term symptom changes in postoperative pain management—findings were mixed.


Research Gaps and Uncertainty in the Evidence

Evidence quality varies across studies, and many of the older trials lack rigorous methodological standards. Sample sizes were modest in some of the controlled trials, and comparative evidence is lacking against other established treatments. Research for the anorectal use is further limited because the specific action of Policresulen alone is often obscured by the use of the combination product. These limitations mean that the certainty remains low in some areas, and more modern, high-quality research is needed.

Key Studies & References

  1. World Health Organization Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification System: D08AE02 Policresulen

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Albocresil (FAQ)

Q: Does Albocresil stain clothing or linens?

A: Regulatory documents do not explicitly detail the specific risk of staining clothing or linens. However, official administration instructions for the vaginal pessary form advise the use of a sanitary pad. This recommendation is related to the medicine’s therapeutic properties which can cause discharge.

Q: How long does the typical course of Albocresil treatment last?

A: The duration of treatment with Albocresil is specifically defined by the pharmaceutical form being used. According to the official prescribing information, vaginal pessaries are typically limited to a treatment duration of not more than nine days, and the oral rinse solution is limited to not more than seven days.

Q: Can Albocresil be used by women during menstruation?

A: Official documentation outlines specific procedural constraints for using the vaginal forms of the medicine. The instructions state that treatment with vaginal forms must be stopped during the menstrual period.

Q: What happens if Albocresil is accidentally ingested?

A: Official safety information states that if the product is swallowed by mistake, there is a risk of an erosive effect on the mouth, throat, and esophagus due to its acidic properties. Regulatory safety information indicates that if this occurs, the protocol involves rinsing the mouth thoroughly and immediately contacting a Poison Center or doctor for guidance.

Q: Does using Albocresil require a specific preparation, like dilution?

A: Certain formulations require specific preparation for correct use. For instance, the vaginal pessary must be moistened with water before insertion. Additionally, the medicine is supplied in a highly concentrated solution form, which is typically subject to a precise dilution procedure as outlined in the instructions for use.

Q: Is it necessary to inform other doctors I am using Albocresil?

A: Official documentation notes that no systemic drug-drug interactions are documented, consistent with the minimal amount of medicine absorbed into the body. However, the regulatory interaction profile advises that the simultaneous local co-administration of other medicinal products or treatments at the same site is a recognized restriction in the official profile.

Q: Is there a maximum duration of time Albocresil should be used?

A: Maximum durations are established for specific dosage forms to guide safe use. For example, the maximum duration of use is not more than nine days for vaginal pessaries and not more than seven days for the oral rinse solution.

Q: Can using Albocresil cause discomfort during sexual activity?

A: Official labeling documents that side effects related to the reproductive system are common. These include vaginal dryness, classified as a very common side effect, and a burning sensation in the vagina, classified as a common side effect, both of which are localized side effects that may affect comfort in the area.

Q: Why is Albocresil not approved in some countries like the United States?

A: Regulatory information shows that Policresulen has been the subject of documentation, such as DailyMed labeling, which indicates the product has been reviewed by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Q: Can Albocresil be used if I am trying to become pregnant?

A: Official regulatory information classifies the use of Albocresil during pregnancy and breastfeeding as conditional. The official classification requires that use only occur when strictly indicated and subject to medical consideration.

Q: Do studies support the use of Albocresil for common skin conditions?

A: The medicine’s general purpose, as defined in regulatory documents, is the localized treatment of skin and mucous membrane lesions. However, the specific clinical research evidence provided in official summaries focuses primarily on gynaecological conditions and anorectal uses.

Q: How does the concentration of the active ingredient affect its use?

A: The active ingredient, Policresulen, is available in various pharmaceutical preparations. These preparations, including highly concentrated solutions and different strength formulations, are designed to allow the medicine's strong, localized action to be precisely targeted to specific uses and administration protocols.

Q: Are there different forms of Albocresil, such as cream versus pessaries?

A: The medicine is supplied in a range of pharmaceutical preparations designed for strict topical and vaginal administration. Available forms typically include a concentrated solution, ready-to-use vaginal solutions, pessaries (vaginal suppositories), and a gel.

Q: Can Albocresil affect the results of other medical tests?

A: Official labeling documents a lack of systemic drug-drug interactions. This is consistent with the product’s minimal systemic absorption, meaning only a very small amount is absorbed into the bloodstream, making it unlikely to affect systemic medical tests.

Q: Is Albocresil known to interact with common pain relievers?

A: The official regulatory documentation states that no systemic drug-drug interactions are documented. This applies to most common pain relievers, which are typically systemic medicines taken orally, and is consistent with the product's very limited systemic exposure.

Q: Can people with sensitive skin use Albocresil?

A: Official labeling includes a burning sensation as a common side effect at the application site. Furthermore, safety constraints advise that the product should be discontinued if severe local irritation occurs.

Q: Is Albocresil used in veterinary medicine?

A: Official international classifications, such as the WHO Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification for veterinary products (ATCvet), acknowledge Policresulen in the context of veterinary medicines.

Q: What is the role of Albocresil in treating non-infectious conditions?

A: The medicine’s mechanism involves selective protein coagulation and control of minor superficial bleeding, which are actions relevant to non-infectious tissue damage. Its general purpose is defined to include promoting the regeneration and healing of damaged tissue and treating lesions.

Q: Are there any long-term side effects associated with Albocresil use?

A: Regulatory texts establish short maximum duration limits for specific uses, typically ranging from seven to nine days. Research summaries included in official reports also note that the existing evidence is generally limited to evaluating short-term changes.

Q: Is Albocresil a substance that helps stop minor bleeding?

A: Official regulatory profiles classify the active ingredient, Policresulen, as a local hemostatic agent. Its mechanism promotes mechanical hemostasis, which is the process of rapidly coagulating blood components at the site of minor capillary injury to help seal superficial bleeding.

Q: Can Albocresil be used in combination with vaginal moisturizing products?

A: The official interaction profile advises that the co-administration of other local medicinal products or treatments at the same site is restricted. Since vaginal moisturizing products are considered a local treatment, using them simultaneously is constrained by this guidance.

Q: Does Albocresil have any effect on the body's natural flora?

A: The medicine's mechanism involves creating an extremely low local pH at the application site. This action results in a broad-spectrum, non-specific antimicrobial effect that disrupts the structure and viability of local pathogens.

Q: Can Albocresil interact with herbal supplements?

A: Official regulatory documentation states that no systemic drug-drug interactions are documented. This applies to most herbal supplements, which are usually systemic, and is consistent with the product's minimal systemic exposure.

Q: Does Albocresil require specific storage conditions (e.g., refrigeration)?

A: Official regulatory documents specify the product must be stored below 25 °C (77 °F). It also requires protection from light and moisture, but refrigeration is not required for stability.

Q: Is the use of Albocresil documented in international health guidelines?

A: Yes, the active ingredient Policresulen has been assigned a classification by the World Health Organization (WHO). This Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) classification is a system used internationally by health authorities to categorize medicines.

Q: What kind of research has been done on Albocresil recently?

A: Official research summaries note that the evidence quality varies across studies and that more modern, high-quality research is needed. Published literature indexed by authorities like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) can provide information on recent study topics and themes.

Q: What percentage of users typically experience side effects from Albocresil?

A: Adverse effects are documented by official frequency categories rather than an overall percentage. For instance, vaginal dryness is classified as Very Common (occurring in at least 1 out of 10 users), while a burning sensation is classified as Common (occurring in between 1 out of 100 and 1 out of 10 users).

Q: Does Albocresil affect the strength or health of teeth if accidentally contacted?

A: The oral rinse solution is explicitly for rinsing only and must be spit out, not swallowed. The medicine's highly acidic properties pose a risk of an erosive effect on the mouth, which includes soft tissues.

Q: Has Albocresil been studied in relation to recurrent infections?

A: The medicine's mechanism involves an antimicrobial action due to its low pH. Additionally, official research documents mention that studies have been conducted on conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, which contributes to understanding use in recurrent cases.

Q: Are there official reports about the environmental impact of Albocresil?

A: Official regulatory documentation includes a specific environmental restriction, which means the product is restricted from disposal via wastewater and requires release to the environment to be avoided.

Q: What kind of studies exist comparing Albocresil to physical procedures?

A: Official research summaries note a lack of high-quality comparative evidence against other established treatments, which can include physical procedures. Research focuses primarily on evaluating Albocresil’s outcomes as a standalone agent or in combination with an anesthetic.

Q: Is Albocresil a generic or brand-name drug?

A: Albocresil is a highly recognized trade name for the medicine. The active ingredient in the product is Policresulen, which is the International Nonproprietary Name (INN).

How should Albocresil be stored and disposed of?

Storage & Disposal Map: How to Store and Dispose of Albocresil

Storage & Disposal Scope Requirement
Labeled Storage Temperature Store below 25 °C (77 °F).
Light/Moisture Protection Requires shading; store in an airtight container.
Handling Requirements Reclose the container tightly immediately after use.
Child-Protection Storage Store out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Instructions Follow established FDA household disposal guidelines.
Environmental Restriction Must not be disposed of via wastewater (do not flush).

Official storage and disposal statements:

Regulatory documents specify that the product must be stored below 25 °C and requires protection from light and moisture to ensure stability and preserve its labeled shelf life. Containers, particularly for solutions, must be tightly reclosed. The product must be kept out of the reach of children. Disposal of unused or expired medicine must adhere to FDA household disposal methods for non-controlled substances and must not involve flushing the product into wastewater.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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