Varithena® Treatment: How It Works

More than 40 million people in the United States suffer from painful, ropy, bulging varicose veins. Varicose veins occur when the valves inside a vein become weakened or damaged. This causes blood to flow backward and pool inside the vein, which causes swelling. Varithena® is a sterile injectable foam used to treat varicose veins in the great saphenous vein (GSV) system. The great saphenous vein is the longest vein in the body, running along the length of the leg, returning blood from the foot.

How does Varithena work?

Varithena is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment that can improve blood flow and minimize the appearance of varicose veins. Your doctor will inject a small amount of the Varithena foam solution into the affected vein, which acts as an irritant. Once the foam is injected, the varicose vein collapses and blood flow shifts to healthier, nearby veins. Compression stockings are typically required for two weeks to promote proper healing.

Depending on the size and severity of your varicose veins, multiple treatments may be necessary. Treatment sessions should be separated by a minimum of five days to avoid excessive discomfort or bruising. Varithena may interact with other medications, so it is important to notify your vein care specialist of any medications and supplements you use.

What are the potential side effects?

Side effects are possible with any medication you take. Possible side effects of Varithena injectable foam are mild, but may include:

  • Discomfort at or near the injection site
  • Tenderness, warmth or itching sensation near the injection site

Carolina Vein Specialists have over 30 years of experience treating varicose veins as well as other vein conditions using the most advanced technology and medicines available. Contact our Winston-Salem and Greensboro vein clinic at 336-218-8346 for an appointment.