Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is a sclerosing (skler-OH-sing) agent. It works by increasing the formation of blood clots and scar tissue inside certain types of veins. This helps decrease dilation of enlarged veins.

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is used to treat small uncomplicated varicose veins in the legs.

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is not a cure for varicose veins and the effects of this medication may not be permanent.

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not receive sodium tetradecyl sulfate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a blood clot disorder such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or thrombophlebitis (swelling of a vein caused by a blood clot);
• Buerger's disease (a blood clotting disorder affecting the arms and legs);
• allergies;
• cancer;
• a severe infection of your blood (sepsis);
• any untreated or uncontrolled disease such as diabetes, overactive thyroid, tuberculosis, asthma, blood cell disorder, or skin disease; or
• if you are bed-ridden due to severe illness.

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate should not be used to treat varicose veins that are caused by a tumor in your stomach or pelvis area, unless the tumor has been surgically removed.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether sodium tetradecyl sulfate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Use Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate (Sotradecol) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; sneezing, runny nose, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• pain or swelling in one or both legs;
• chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, fast heart rate; or
• pain, itching, peeling, skin sores, or skin changes where the medicine was injected.

Common side effects may include:

• mild headache;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• discolored skin along the treated vein (may be permanent).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.