Polidocanol
Varithena is a prescription injectable foam medication used to treat varicose veins, specifically the great saphenous vein and its associated branches. The sclerosing agent polidocanol is delivered as a microfoam that damages the vein's inner lining, causing the vessel to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body over time.
Varithena is an injectable foam used to treat symptomatic varicose veins by causing them to close and be absorbed by the body.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1484399
- Generic
- Varithena
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins, reticular veins, and varicosities associated with venous insufficiency. It is indicated for patients with symptoms such as aching, heaviness, and fatigue related to their varicose veins.
Varithena contains polidocanol, a sclerosing agent that when injected as a microfoam causes endothelial damage to the vein wall. This triggers fibrosis and eventual closure of the target vein, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.
Administered as an ultrasound-guided injection by a qualified healthcare provider. Common side effects include injection site bruising, discoloration, and mild pain. Rare but serious risks include thromboembolism and tissue damage. Contraindicated in patients with known polidocanol allergy, severe peripheral arterial disease, or acute thromboembolic conditions.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy