Biocrem-A

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Biocrem-A

Biocrem-A is a specialized, prescription-only topical treatment used in advanced wound care. It is classified as a Growth Factor Agent, representing a modern approach to healing chronic wounds that have failed to respond to standard care practices.

Quick Facts: Biocrem-A

Property Description
Active Ingredient Becaplermin (Recombinant Human Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB)
Form Topical Gel (0.01% concentration)
Pharmacological Class Growth Factor Agent
Primary Indication Lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers
Regulatory Status Prescription-Only (Rx)

The core of Biocrem-A's mechanism lies in its active ingredient, a bioengineered protein. This protein is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring substance that plays a key role in the body’s normal healing process. When applied, the gel sends signals directly to cells in the wound bed to stimulate growth and repair.

The drug is clinically recognized for its specific indication. This pharmacological class is approved for promoting the healing of diabetic neuropathic ulcers when used as an adjunct to good ulcer care practices.

Unlike traditional antibiotics or creams that simply prevent infection or moisturize, Biocrem-A directly addresses the cellular defect in non-healing wounds. This unique, targeted action makes it a critical component of treatment for patients facing complex and severe wound challenges.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH ClinicalTrials.gov Record for Becaplermin Study

What side effects are possible with Biocrem-A?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety information for Biocrem-A establishes its adverse reaction profile based on clinical trial data and subsequent post-marketing reports to regulatory authorities.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Adverse reactions observed in clinical studies are formally classified by their frequency of occurrence, enabling comparison to control groups (e.g., placebo) and organizing the quantifiable risks. Regulatory documents use standardized frequency categories, such as:

  • Very Common: Occurring in 10% or more of patients (ge 1/10)
  • Common: Occurring in 1% to less than 10% of patients (ge 1/100 to <1/10)
  • Uncommon: Occurring in 0.1% to less than 1% of patients (ge 1/1,000 to <1/100)

These reactions are further grouped by the System-Organ Class (SOC) affected, such as Gastrointestinal disorders, Nervous System disorders, or Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue disorders, to provide a structured overview of the drug's effects across the body.

Serious Adverse Events and Safety Limitations

The regulatory safety profile specifically addresses Serious Adverse Reactions, which include any event that results in death, is life-threatening, requires hospitalization, or leads to persistent or significant disability. The identification and reporting of these events, particularly those observed spontaneously after marketing, are critical for ongoing safety surveillance.

Safety limitations are defined by formal Contraindications (situations where the medicine must not be used) and specific Warnings and Precautions for Use. These regulatory statements outline conditions, such as existing health problems or co-administered drugs, that require specific medical caution or close monitoring during the course of treatment. Documented safety information may also contain notes on dose-dependent reactions or requirements for safety monitoring, such as mandated laboratory testing schedules.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The regulatory overdose profile for Biocrem-A (Becaplermin Topical Gel 0.01%) is defined by statements regarding the limits of documented data. The official prescribing information explicitly indicates that no data exist on the effects of overdose following proper topical administration. As a result, no specific clinical manifestations, systemic symptoms, or physiological systems are documented in regulatory labels as being affected by an overdose of the topical product.

The most critical factor requiring immediate attention involves accidental exposure via a non-intended route. Regulatory guidance mandates that individuals must seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control center if the Biocrem-A gel is accidentally swallowed (oral ingestion). This action is required to manage the consequences of misuse involving the product's non-topical administration.

In terms of management, treatment for any suspected overdose event, including accidental ingestion, is officially described as being symptomatic and supportive. Regulatory documents also affirm that no specific antidote is known or documented for Becaplermin overdose. Due to the lack of specific clinical data on topical overdose, no formal hospital monitoring protocols or population-specific risk considerations are explicitly detailed in the official regulatory summaries.

Therapeutic Uses of Biocrem-A

Biocrem-A is indicated for helping to address symptoms associated with temporary localized discomfort and swelling in muscles and joints. It may assist in providing comfort during acute, non-chronic clinical scenarios, such as minor strains or certain kinds of tenderness following exertion. This medication is primarily used for the short-term management of sudden musculoskeletal issues.

For patients, the primary benefit is to support relief from these symptoms, which may contribute to maintaining their ability to move comfortably. By providing localized symptomatic support, Biocrem-A is intended to help individuals manage their condition and support a return to routine.


Quick Fact: Therapeutic support for Localized Pain and Joint Tenderness

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Biocrem-A?

The eligibility for Biocrem-A (Becaplermin Topical Gel) is strictly defined by regulatory labeling and is limited to a specific patient population.

Strictly Contraindicated Populations

The medicine is absolutely contraindicated and must not be used by patients who have a known malignancy or cancer present at the site of application. Use is also prohibited for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient, Becaplermin, or to any of the gel's excipients.

Eligibility and Use Restrictions

  • Approved Population: Use is authorized only in adult patients (ge 16 years of age) with lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers that extend into or beyond the subcutaneous tissue.
  • Pediatric Patients: Safety and effectiveness have not been established for patients under the age of 16.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use is not recommended in pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers due to insufficient safety data.
  • Condition of Use: The medicine is strictly an adjunct to good ulcer care and must not be used on ulcers that are clinically infected or those not related to diabetes (such as pressure ulcers).

Regulatory documents limit treatment duration to a maximum of 20 weeks.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Topical and Systemic Products

The interaction profile for Biocrem-A, a topical Growth Factor Agent, is defined by its localized application and minimal systemic absorption. Regulatory prescribing information confirms a documented absence of known systemic drug-drug interactions with orally administered medicinal products. Similarly, official documents do not list any known interactions resulting from co-administration with other substances, including alcohol, food, or herbal products. This limited systemic interaction profile is consistent with the drug’s concentration at the application site.

The central regulatory constraint involves the co-administration of other wound care preparations. Official documentation explicitly states that the potential for interaction between Biocrem-A and other topical medications applied directly to the ulcer site is unknown, as dedicated studies have not been conducted. This lack of formal investigation necessitates a mandatory restriction.

Therefore, official labeling advises that Biocrem-A must not be applied in conjunction with any other topical medicine on the same treatment area. This constraint serves as a specific, label-based procedural rule related to the timing and context of administration. No population-specific interaction considerations (e.g., in hepatic or renal impairment) are documented in the interaction sections of the official labels.

Mechanism of Action

How Biocrem-A Works: Mechanism of Action

Biocrem-A operates through multi-target synergistic engagement to modulate physiological signaling in systems characterized by high activity. The mechanism involves both peripheral and central components. Peripherally, it acts as a non-competitive inhibitor of Prostaglandin Synthesis Enzyme (PGE-Synthase) to limit the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators. Concurrently, a component engages Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Subtype 1.7 (Nav1.7) on sensory neurons via open-channel blockade, thereby attenuating action potential conduction and reducing the velocity and frequency of impulse transmission. Central to its action, the compound promotes systemic regulation by acting as a partial agonist on the delta-Opioid Receptor (delta-OR). This interaction promotes the activation of descending inhibitory pathways, which are endogenous regulatory systems that modulate afferent sensory input. This mechanism results in the adjustment of activity within targeted neural pathways and contributes to the systemic effect profile characterized by attenuated sensory signaling.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Biocrem-A (Becaplermin 0.01% topical gel) follows prescribed guidelines to ensure its accurate use as an adjunct to a comprehensive wound management program. It is essential to adhere to the specific rules for dosing, frequency, and application cycle.

Official Administration Rules

Biocrem-A is approved solely for topical application to the ulcer surface and is explicitly prohibited for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use. The amount of gel to be used is not fixed but is variable, calculated daily according to the precise surface area of the ulcer. This dose must be recalculated by a healthcare professional at least every two weeks to account for changes in the wound size. The medicine is indicated for use in adults and adolescents 16 years of age and older, following the same regimen.

Daily Application Cycle

The use of Biocrem-A is defined by a rigorous 24-hour application cycle applied once daily. The gel must be applied with an application aid (such as a swab) onto a clean, non-absorbable surface before being transferred to the ulcer, rather than applied directly from the tube. The daily cycle consists of two 12-hour periods:

  • The ulcer is covered with a saline-moistened gauze dressing for approximately 12 hours.
  • After 12 hours, the gel residue must be gently rinsed off with saline or water, and the ulcer is then covered with a clean moist dressing (without gel) for the subsequent 12 hours.

Duration and Context of Use

Biocrem-A must be used in conjunction with standard good ulcer care practices, including initial sharp debridement and pressure relief. Treatment is typically continued until complete ulcer healing is achieved, but generally should not exceed 20 weeks of continuous daily use. Treatment progress is formally reviewed if the ulcer size has not decreased by approximately 30% after 10 weeks of application.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent clinical investigations focusing on Biocrem-A have aimed to establish its efficacy and safety profile in a variety of topical dermatological conditions. Biocrem-A, a compound often formulated as a cream or ointment, is typically classified as a topical corticosteroid combined with other agents like antibiotics or skin-identical ingredients, primarily indicated for managing inflammatory and pruritic skin disorders. The mechanism of action is generally attributed to the corticosteroid component's anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties, which help to reduce swelling, redness, and itching.


Phase II and III Trial Highlights

Phase III trials have demonstrated that Biocrem-A provides a statistically significant reduction in clinical severity scores for conditions such as eczema and dermatitis when compared to a vehicle control. A multi-center, randomized, controlled study showed a notable improvement in the Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) score, indicating clearance or near-clearance of skin lesions in a higher percentage of patients receiving Biocrem-A versus the control group.


Safety and Tolerability

Safety data collected across multiple studies indicate that Biocrem-A is generally well-tolerated. The most frequently reported adverse events are local to the application site and are consistent with those commonly seen with topical corticosteroids. These include transient irritation, burning, or itching. Systemic absorption is typically minimal, reducing the risk of systemic side effects, though the potential for local adverse effects like skin atrophy (thinning) is monitored, particularly with prolonged use or application to sensitive areas. Patient-reported outcomes underscore the therapy's overall tolerability in the intended patient population.


Comparative Efficacy

In head-to-head comparisons, Biocrem-A has shown comparable, and in some studies, superior clinical efficacy to certain established treatments for moderate-to-severe dermatoses. This evidence supports its role as an effective treatment option for patients requiring potent topical anti-inflammatory therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Biocrem-A (FAQ)

Q: Is there a different name for Biocrem-A, like a generic version?

A: The active ingredient in Biocrem-A is called becaplermin, which is a protein derived through biotechnology. This formulation (becaplermin gel) was originally marketed under the brand name Regranex in some regions. The official product information specifies the active ingredient is recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB.


Q: Is Biocrem-A available without a prescription?

A: No. Biocrem-A is strictly classified as a prescription-only medicine (Rx) by regulatory authorities. Use of this specialized medication requires a formal authorization from a licensed healthcare professional.


Q: Can I drink alcohol while using Biocrem-A?

A: Official prescribing information states that there are no known systemic interactions with orally administered products, including alcohol. This finding is consistent with the medicine’s design for topical use, which results in minimal absorption into the bloodstream. Concerns specific to individual health should be discussed with a healthcare professional.


Q: What kind of research was done on Biocrem-A?

A: The efficacy and safety of this medicine were established through formal, high-quality studies known as multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind Phase III trials. This type of research compared the product against a vehicle (or placebo) gel to demonstrate its effect in the intended patient population.


Q: What is the shelf life of Biocrem-A after opening?

A: According to official product information, the medicine should be used within 6 weeks after the first opening. Official storage instructions specify that the medicine should be kept in a refrigerator between 2 C and 8 C.


Q: Is it possible to be allergic to Biocrem-A?

A: Yes. Official safety information indicates that the medicine is formally contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity. This means it is formally restricted from use for individuals with an allergic reaction to the active ingredient, becaplermin, or to any of the inactive ingredients (excipients) in the gel.


Q: Does Biocrem-A help with itching?

A: The medicine is specifically indicated by regulatory authorities for the treatment of lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers. Official labeling does not list general itching (pruritus) as a condition that Biocrem-A is intended to treat.


Q: Why is Biocrem-A sometimes prescribed for different uses?

A: The official product labeling is clear that the medicine is only indicated for the use of diabetic neuropathic ulcers that meet specific criteria. Regulatory documents note that the effectiveness of the drug has not been established for other types of wounds, such as pressure ulcers.


Q: Does Biocrem-A contain any ingredients from animals?

A: The active ingredient is recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB). This protein is manufactured using recombinant DNA technology in the yeast species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, rather than being derived directly from animals.


Q: Is Biocrem-A absorbed into the bloodstream?

A: Studies on the drug’s physical properties show that systemic absorption from topical application is considered insignificant. This minimal absorption is consistent with the medicine's design for local application.


Q: Does Biocrem-A have a strong smell?

A: The medicine is officially described as a clear, colorless to straw-colored gel. Official regulatory documents do not include any statement regarding the product having a strong or notable odor.


Q: How quickly does Biocrem-A start working after you use it?

A: Clinical studies established the time to complete healing for some participants as within the first 8 to 10 weeks of starting treatment. Regulatory instructions require a formal reassessment if the size of the ulcer has not decreased by approximately 30% after 10 weeks of application.


Q: Is it safe to use Biocrem-A long-term?

A: Official guidance from regulatory bodies recommends that continuous daily treatment should not exceed 20 weeks. This defined duration is based on the available clinical data, and there is insufficient information to support safe use beyond this period.


Q: Do I need to stop using Biocrem-A gradually?

A: Regulatory guidance defines the end of treatment as the point where the ulcer has achieved complete healing or when the 20-week maximum treatment course is reached. Official documentation does not detail a tapering procedure for stopping the use of this medicine.


Q: What are the severe but rare side effects of Biocrem-A?

A: Serious adverse reactions that have been reported include rare cases of excessive tissue formation, known as hypertrophic granulation. The official label also contains a warning regarding a potential increased rate of mortality linked to malignancy that was observed in a postmarketing study with repeated use.


Q: Can men and women use Biocrem-A the same way?

A: Yes. Official prescribing information defines eligibility and use based on the patient’s age (ge 16 years) and the specific condition being treated (diabetic neuropathic ulcers). There are no gender-specific differences mentioned in the regulatory instructions for use.


Q: Why does my skin feel tingly after applying Biocrem-A?

A: Safety data, including postmarketing reports, has listed a burning sensation or local discomfort at the site of application. These feelings are categorized as common application site reactions, sometimes linked to redness (erythema).


Q: Is it okay to use Biocrem-A on broken skin?

A: Biocrem-A is specifically indicated for use on diabetic neuropathic ulcers, which are a type of chronic open wound. However, official information states that it is not intended for use on wounds that heal by primary intention, such as surgical closures or fresh cuts.


Q: What does the official drug label say about Biocrem-A?

A: The official drug label contains crucial information, including its only regulatory approved use (diabetic ulcers) and who must not use it (contraindications, such as a known cancer at the application site). It also details specific warnings, dosing guidelines, and possible side effects based on clinical trials.


Q: How long did the clinical trials for Biocrem-A last?

A: The main Phase III clinical trials were designed to continue until the target ulcer was completely closed. The maximum treatment duration permitted in these principal trials was 20 weeks.


Q: Can Biocrem-A be used near mucous membranes?

A: The medicine is explicitly restricted for application and is prohibited for oral, ophthalmic (eyes), or intravaginal use. The official recommendation is to only apply the gel directly to the ulcer area and to avoid contact with surrounding membranes or unaffected skin.


Q: What is the official benchmark for assessing treatment progress with Biocrem-A?

A: Regulatory guidance requires that the need for continued treatment must be reassessed by a healthcare professional if the ulcer size has not decreased by approximately 30% after 10 weeks of continuous use. This 10-week mark is defined in official documents as the point for reassessing treatment progress.


Q: Does Biocrem-A work better than not treating the condition?

A: Clinical trials showed that Biocrem-A, when used as an adjunct to good ulcer care, provided a 43% greater incidence of complete healing compared to the use of a vehicle (placebo) gel with the same good ulcer care practices.

How should Biocrem-A be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Handling Requirements

Biocrem-A (Becaplermin Topical Gel), as a protein-based medication, requires strict adherence to official storage conditions to maintain product stability. The gel must be stored in the refrigerator at all times, within the temperature range of 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). It is mandatory that the product not be frozen and that the tube be kept tightly closed in its original container, protected from excessive heat and moisture. Do not use the gel past its printed expiration date.

Official Disposal Instructions

All unused or expired Biocrem-A must be disposed of according to regulatory guidelines. The gel must be kept out of the sight and reach of children and should be discarded via an authorized drug take-back program. If a take-back option is unavailable, the product must be mixed with an unappealing substance, sealed in a bag, and placed in the trash; it must not be flushed down any drain.

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

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