Becaplermin
From PeptidePlaza, the free peptide reference · Entry #1070 · Metabolic · Sources fetched 2026-09-11 · Editorial standards
Becaplermin is a metabolic research peptide. Becaplermin is a recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor, functioning as a platelet-derived growth factor receptor agonist. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers.
Becaplermin is a human platelet-derived growth factor receptor agonist, approved by the FDA in 1997. It is indicated for the topical treatment of lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers that extend into the subcutaneous tissue or beyond, provided there is adequate blood supply. Becaplermin is used as an adjunct to good ulcer care practices, including initial sharp debridement, pressure relief, and infection control. Its efficacy has not been established for pressure ulcers, venous stasis ulcers, or diabetic neuropathic ulcers that do not extend through the dermis. Research on becaplermin often focuses on its cost-effectiveness and benefit-risk assessment in treating diabetic foot ulcers.
1 Mechanism of action
Platelet-derived growth factor receptor agonist (agonist)
Primary targets: Platelet-derived growth factor receptor
2 Reported effects
Effects below are those reported in the published literature cited on this page. They are not claims of clinical benefit and not medical advice.
2.1 Indicated / studied for
- Lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers
2.2 Side effects
- Erythematous rashes
- Burning sensation at application site
- Erythema at application site
3 Chemical and physical properties
| Purity (typical) | Not independently verified |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Regranex Gel 0.01% |
| Route | TOPICAL |
| Storage | −20 °C, lyophilised powder, desiccated |
| Solubility | Sterile water / bacteriostatic water |
| Receptors / targets | Platelet-derived growth factor receptor |
4 Research dosages
The amount of REGRANEX to be applied depends upon the size of the ulcer area. To calculate the length of gel in inches, use the formula: length × width × 0.6 (for 15 g tube). To calculate the length of gel in centimeters, use the formula: length × width ÷ 4 (for 15 g tube). The amount should be recalculated at weekly or biweekly intervals.
5 Research studies (8)
- Becaplermin
BioDrugs : clinical immunotherapeutics, biopharmaceuticals and gene therapy (1999) - Cost effectiveness of Becaplermin in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers in four European countries
PharmacoEconomics (2001) · Meta-Analysis - Benefit-risk assessment of becaplermin in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers
Drug safety (2010) · Review - Becaplermin gel in the treatment of diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers
Clinical interventions in aging (2008) · Review - A review of nonclinical toxicology studies of becaplermin (rhPDGF-BB)
American journal of surgery (1998) · Review - Becaplermin: recombinant platelet derived growth factor, a new treatment for healing diabetic foot ulcers
Expert opinion on biological therapy (2002) · Review - Advancing pharmacotherapy for diabetic foot ulcers
Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy (2019) · Review - Preclinical promise of becaplermin (rhPDGF-BB) in wound healing
American journal of surgery (1998) · Review
6 Safety and risk profile
6.1 Regulatory status
Becaplermin is currently classified as FDA approved. Approval applies to specific clinical indications and dosing; research-grade material is not the approved product.
6.2 Contraindications
Conditions and populations in which use is contraindicated:
- Known neoplasm(s) at the site(s) of application
6.3 Long-term risks
- Malignancies distant from the site of application
6.4 Research best practices
- Store refrigerated at 2° - 8°C (36° - 46°F)
- Do not freeze
7 Frequently asked questions
- What is becaplermin used for?
- Becaplermin is indicated for the treatment of lower extremity diabetic neuropathic ulcers that extend into the subcutaneous tissue or beyond, and have an adequate blood supply. It is used as an adjunct to standard ulcer care practices.
- How does becaplermin work?
- Becaplermin functions as a platelet-derived growth factor receptor agonist. It is a recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor that promotes cellular proliferation and angiogenesis to aid in wound healing.
- Is becaplermin FDA approved?
- Yes, becaplermin is FDA approved. It was first approved in 1997 and is marketed as Regranex Gel 0.01% for topical administration.
- What are the side effects of becaplermin?
- Common side effects reported with becaplermin include erythematous rashes. Post-approval experience has also noted burning sensation and erythema at the site of application.
- What are the contraindications for becaplermin?
- Becaplermin is contraindicated in patients with known neoplasm(s) at the site(s) of application due to its mechanism of promoting cellular proliferation.
8 References
- Becaplermin — molecule record ChEMBL. View source
- Becaplermin — FDA approved prescribing information U.S. Food and Drug Administration. View source
- Becaplermin — published literature (102 records) PubMed. View source
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