Papain is a substance from the papaya fruit. Papain breaks down certain proteins.

Urea also breaks down protein.

Papain-urea topical is used to break down dead skin or tissues in wounds such as bed sores, ulcers, burns, surgical wounds, cysts, and carbuncles. This process is sometimes called debridement (de-BREED-ment). The broken-down tissues can then be more easily removed.

Papain-urea topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Wash your hands before and after applying papain-urea topical.

Clean the wound as directed by your doctor. Use only the type of cleanser your doctor has recommended.

Apply papain-urea topical directly to the wound. Then cover the treated area with bandaging or other dressing recommended by your doctor. Keep the wound covered at all times, because this medication will cause the dead tissues to slough and peel off.

Papain-urea topical is usually applied two times each day. Clean the wound and apply a fresh bandage dressing each time you use the medication.

It is important to use papain-urea regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Store papain-urea topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

There may be other drugs that can affect papain-urea topical. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Avoid using hydrogen peroxide to clean your wound before applying papain-urea topical. Hydrogen peroxide can make the papain-urea less effective in breaking down the tissues of your wound.

Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, mouth, and nose, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, wash with water.

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose of papain-urea is suspected or if the medication has been ingested.

Symptoms of an overdose of papain-urea topical are not known.

Use the medication as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Wash your hands before and after applying papain-urea topical.

Clean the wound as directed by your doctor. Use only the type of cleanser your doctor has recommended.

Apply papain-urea topical directly to the wound. Then cover the treated area with bandaging or other dressing recommended by your doctor. Keep the wound covered at all times, because this medication will cause the dead tissues to slough and peel off.

Avoid using hydrogen peroxide to clean your wound before applying papain-urea topical. Hydrogen peroxide can make the papain-urea less effective in breaking down the tissues of your wound.

Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to papain or urea.

Before using papain-urea topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have other medical conditions. You may not be able to papain-urea topical, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

It is not known whether papain-urea will be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether papain-urea passes into breast milk. Do not use papain-urea topical without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Your pharmacist has information about papain-urea topical written for health professionals that you may read.

Papain-urea topical is available with a prescription under several brand names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.