Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum
Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum is an enzyme injection used to treat Dupuytren's contracture and Peyronie's disease by breaking down collagen deposits that cause painful cords and curvature. Administered directly into affected tissue by healthcare professionals, it works by enzymatically hydrolyzing collagen in its native triple helix structure.
An injectable enzyme therapy that breaks down collagen to treat Dupuytren's contracture and Peyronie's disease.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- M09AB02
- RxNorm
- 898492
- Generic
- Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum
- Class
- atc-m09
- Brands
- Xiaflex
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats Dupuytren's contracture (collagen cords in the hand causing finger flexion) and Peyronie's disease (penile curvature from collagen plaques). Treatment is indicated when a palpable cord is present.
Contains collagenase enzymes derived from Clostridium histolyticum bacteria. When injected directly into collagen-rich tissue, it hydrolyzes collagen in its native triple helical conformation, causing enzymatic lysis and breakdown of the targeted cord or plaque.
Must be administered by a healthcare professional. After injection, a finger extension procedure is typically performed 1-3 days later. Potential adverse effects include swelling, bruising, pain at injection site, and in Peyronie's disease, penile fracture risk. Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the product or those on anticoagulant therapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy