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n.

An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body, thereby increasing tissue permeability to fluids. Also called spreading factor.

Any one of a family of enzymes, also known as hyaluronate lyases or spreading factors, produced by mammals, reptiles, insects, and bacteria, which catalyze the breakdown of hyaluronic acid. Some hyaluronidases also attack other similar polysaccharides. Since all liquefy the polysaccharide gel which fills the tissue spaces, they effectively accelerate diffusion so that injected, dissolved, or particulate matter (bacteria, viruses, toxins, or pigments) can diffuse through a larger volume of tissue. See also Hyaluronic acid.

The biological importance of the enzyme depends upon its source. That found in the culture filtrates of many strains of virulent bacteria permits the microorganisms to gain access to a larger volume of the host's tissue and, hence, to additional nutriment. That found in the venom of certain snakes and bees permits the toxin to produce more extensive damage to the victim. See also Enzyme.

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An enzyme which contributes to the break down of hyaluronic acid, a constituent of connective tissue. Hyaluronidase occurs naturally in many tissues. Preparations are injected into the skin of patients undergoing liposuction. The enzyme assists in breaking down the connective tissue so that the fat can be sucked out more easily. Hyaluronidase has also been used successfully to treat bruises.

(hī'-əl-yōōr-on'ədās)
n

An enzyme that produces hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, the cementing substance of the tissues. Produced by certain pathogenic bacteria and also formed by sperm.

Brand names: Amphadase™, Vitrase®, Wydase®, Hydase™, Hylenex™

Drug Forms:
• Hyaluronidase ovine injection (below)
• Hyaluronidase bovine injection

Español:
• Inyección de hialuronidasa ovina

Hyaluronidase ovine injection

What is Hyaluronidase ovine injection?

HYALURONIDASE OVINE (Vitrase®) injection is used to increase the effectiveness of local anesthesia or increase the absorption or distribution of injected drugs. Generic hyaluronidase ovine injection is not available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• allergy to bee stings or other insects
• an unusual reaction to Hyaluronidase, sheep proteins, cow proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

A health care professional will inject hyaluronidase into the affected site when needed. Follow your health care professional's after care instructions carefully.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

A health care professional will be administering this medication, therefore you are not expected to miss any doses.

What drug(s) may interact with Hyaluronidase?

• antihistamines
• aspirin and related drugs

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Hyaluronidase?

Visit your health care professional for recommended follow-up. Follow all directions regarding physical activity and after care of the procedure.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Hyaluronidase?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• chest pain or chest tightness
• dizziness
• rapid heart beat or racing heart
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• skin rash, hives or itching
• swelling of the face, lips, neck, ears, arms or legs
• throat tightness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• mild inflammation, redness or pain at the injection site
• nausea or vomiting

Where can I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will not receive hyaluronidase to store at home.

Last updated: 12/27/2004 10:25:00 AM

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

An enzyme found in the testes, semen, and other tissues. Preparations of hyaluronidase have been used successfully to treat bruises.

An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, the ‘cement material’ of connective tissues; it is found in leeches, snake and spider venom, in testes, and is produced by various pathogenic bacteria, enabling them to spread through tissue. A preparation from mammalian testes is used to promote absorption and diffusion of solutions injected subcutaneously. When hyaluronidase is mixed with fluids administered subcutaneously, absorption is more rapid and less uncomfortable. Hyaluronidase should not be given in areas where there is infection. Since it hastens absorption, it must be given with caution when administered with toxic drugs, as the toxic reaction can occur very rapidly.

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