Hemangeol

• Hemangeol is an oral solution containing propranolol, used for treating severe infantile hemangiomas.
• It works by constricting blood vessels and inhibiting the growth of hemangioma cells.
• Treatment typically begins between 5 weeks and 5 months of age and continues for several months.
• Common side effects include sleep disturbances, diarrhea, and cold extremities.
• Close medical supervision is essential during treatment to monitor for potential adverse effects.

What is Hemangeol: Uses and Mechanism

Hemangeol is the brand name for an oral solution containing propranolol hydrochloride, a beta-blocker. It is specifically indicated for the treatment of proliferating infantile hemangiomas (IH) that require systemic therapy. Infantile hemangiomas are the most common benign vascular tumors of infancy, affecting approximately 4-5% of infants, with a higher incidence in premature infants and females. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Infantile Hemangiomas).

This medication is used for treating IH when they pose a risk to vital functions or life, are ulcerated with pain and/or lack of response to simple wound care, or are associated with significant functional impairment or permanent disfigurement. The mechanism by which Hemangeol treats hemangioma involves several actions. Propranolol, its active ingredient, is believed to constrict the blood vessels within the hemangioma, reducing blood flow to the tumor. Additionally, it may inhibit angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the proliferating endothelial cells that make up the hemangioma. This combined action helps to stop the growth of the hemangioma and promote its regression.

Understanding Hemangeol medication information is crucial for effective treatment. It is not a cure for hemangiomas but rather a management tool to reduce their size and prevent complications during the critical proliferative phase. Treatment is typically initiated in infants between 5 weeks and 5 months of age, under strict medical supervision.

Hemangeol Dosage, Administration, and Side Effects

The administration of Hemangeol requires careful attention to dosage and patient monitoring. The recommended starting dose is typically 0.6 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses, administered orally with food. The dose is gradually increased over several weeks to a target dose of 1.1 mg/kg/day, also divided into two doses. Treatment duration usually extends for several months, often until the infant is 1 year old, or until the hemangioma has stabilized and is no longer actively proliferating. It is vital to administer the medication consistently with food to ensure proper absorption and minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.

Like all medications, Hemangeol can cause side effects. Awareness of Hemangeol side effects and dosage is essential for parents and caregivers. The most common adverse reactions reported include:

• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, nightmares)
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Bronchospasm (wheezing)
• Cold extremities
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)

More serious, though less common, side effects can include severe hypoglycemia, particularly in infants who are not feeding well or are experiencing vomiting, and respiratory distress. Infants must be monitored for heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels, especially during the initiation of therapy and dose escalations. Parents should be advised on how to recognize signs of hypoglycemia or respiratory issues and when to seek immediate medical attention. It is critical to adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by the healthcare professional.