What is the active ingredient in Vetericyn Plus® Veterinary Formula (VF)?
The active ingredient in Vetericyn Plus VF is hypochlorous acid (HOCl). The hypochlorous molecule is naturally produced by the body’s white blood cells. We created a synthesized version of the hypochlorous molecule to bring veterinarians a revolutionary and safe animal care product. Because the HOCl molecule is pH neutral and has a similar safety profile to saline, it doesn’t damage healthy tissue the way traditional wound cleansers can. This is also the reason it doesn’t sting or burn when applied to wounds or irritations and why it’s safe to use around the eyes, ears, and mouth.
How is Vetericyn Plus® VF produced?
Vetericyn Plus is manufactured by generating an electrolyte intermediate based on an electrochemical process called electrolysis and formulating the intermediate into the finished product. The basic principle of electrolysis is well established. However, the automation effort to scale up the electrolysis to a well-controlled, commercial manufacturing process is highly complex. A multi-chamber flow system with sophisticated hardware and software design is required. The system is operated by highly trained Innovacyn staff under a cGMP environment. The formulation compounding step is similar to a pharmaceutical manufacturing process. In-process quality control and finished product testing of every production batch assures that high quality standards are met for Vetericyn Plus VF.
What are the key benefits and advantages of Vetericyn Plus® VF?
- Effective in wound bed preparation
- Safe for irrigation in wound cavities, even with tunneling/undermining wounds
- Debrides both eschar and slough tissue
- Aids in autolytic debridement
- Helps to reduce wound and skin odor
- Relieves itch and pain of dermal tissues
- Non-cytotoxic
- Non-corrosive
- Non-flammable
- No special disposal requirements
- Stable HOCl solutions
- Ready-to-use
- No dilution required
- No mixing required
- Contains no steroids or antibiotics
- Contains no alcohol or iodine
- Moisture Donation to wound bed
How does Vetericyn Plus® VF differ from bleach?
The active ingredient in Vetericyn Plus is hypochlorous acid and the chemical formula of hypochlorous acid is HOCl. The chemical formula of bleach is NaCIO. The pH of bleach is 11-13 whereas the pH of Vetericyn Plus VF is 6.5-6.8. This difference is very important in safety and non-cytotoxicity. Although both are oxy-chlorine compounds, the change in formula makes a big difference in activity.
What is the pH of Vetericyn Plus® VF?
Hypochlorous acid is very pH-dependent, so to keep the safety and effectiveness, Vetericyn Plus VF is produced and maintained in a pH range of 6.5-6.8.
How does Vetericyn Plus® Veterinary Formula differ from OTC Vetericyn Plus®?
Because veterinarians see more severe problems, the Vetericyn Plus VF products contain a higher concentration of HOCl which provides effectiveness when exposed to higher organic load and bioburden.
What are some examples of when to use Vetericyn Plus® VF?
- Acute and chronic wounds
- Partial and full-thickness wounds
- Stage I-IV pressure injuries
- Pre and post-surgical procedures
- Dermatoses (Hydrogel)
- Urine and fecal scalding
- Hot spots
- Trauma wounds
- 1st and 2nd degree burns
- Abrasions and minor irritations of the skin
What are the advantages of Vetericyn Plus® VF vs other wound products?
Effectiveness and safety! Many studies have shown the antimicrobial effectiveness of HOCl and one of the impressive attributes is the quick kill time. Not only is it safe if licked or ingested but it is also non-cytotoxic, so it does not damage healthy tissue or slow down healing.
How do I decide whether to use the liquid or the hydrogel?
The Vetericyn Plus VF liquid formula is optimal for cleansing, flushing, and debriding wounds. It should be used at the initial presentation to thoroughly clean the area and set the stage for the best outcome. Once the wound is clean the liquid can be used to moisten dressings and to continue cleaning the wound as needed. Use of the liquid should be continued for a highly exudative wound. For wounds that require more moisture the hydrogel is optimal, as it donates moisture to tissue and can be used with or without a bandage. The hydrogel is also beneficial for many skin issues as it provides a longer adherence and offers some protection from environmental factors.
How frequently can Vetericyn Plus® VF be used?
Vetericyn Plus VF products can be used several times a day or at each dressing change.
Are there any contraindications for using Vetericyn Plus® VF?
Components in Vetericyn Plus VF do not have a known history of contraindications. Scientific studies have been conducted to verify the safety and compatibility of Vetericyn Plus VF with common advanced wound care products and modalities.
Is Vetericyn Plus® VF safe for very young, old, or debilitated animals?
There have not been reported issues with the use of Vetericyn Plus VF on patients of any age or health status.
Is Vetericyn Plus® VF safe for use on pregnant animals?
There have not been any reported issues with the use of Vetericyn Plus VF on pregnant or breeding animals.
Are there any special handling requirements when using or disposing of Vetericyn Plus® VF?
Vetericyn Plus VF is safe for the animal, user and the environment. No special handling or disposal considerations are required.