Hirudoid is a topical medicinal brand primarily known for its creams, gels, and related preparations that contain mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS), a heparinoid. It is indicated for conditions involving bruising, hematomas, swelling, and inflammation of superficial veins. While the specific indications and formulations can vary by country, Hirudoid products are generally regulated as medicinal products rather than ordinary skincare or cosmetic moisturizers in markets such as Singapore.

In Singapore, the National Drug Formulary lists Hirudoid Cream 0.3 g/100 g and Hirudoid Forte Cream 445 mg/100 g. These products are classified under the medicinal ATC category C05BA01, distinguishing them from non-medicinal topical agents.13

The defining active ingredient in Hirudoid is mucopolysaccharide polysulfate (MPS). MPS is a sulfated polysaccharide preparation belonging to the heparinoid class. It is important to note that Hirudoid is not simply topical heparin; while it shares some pharmacological characteristics with heparin, MPS is a distinct substance.

Mechanism of Action

MPS exerts several local effects on the tissue where it is applied:

1. Anticoagulant Activity: As a heparinoid, MPS has anticoagulant-related activity. Product information indicates that it reduces the formation of blood clots and helps prevent existing clots from growing.4
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: The active ingredient possesses pharmacological effects associated with reducing local inflammation, influencing inflammatory mediators and vascular permeability.5
3. Resolution of Bruises and Hematomas: A bruise or hematoma involves blood escaping from damaged vessels into surrounding tissue. Hirudoid is applied locally to support the resolution of these affected areas, which is why it is commonly referred to as a “bruise cream” in everyday usage.
4. Absorption: Although applied topically, MPS is absorbed into tissues. Systemic concentrations following cutaneous use are described as being below physiologically relevant coagulation thresholds.

Approved indications depend on the product registration in each country. Common uses include:

• Bruises and hematomas, particularly following blunt trauma or injury.
• Swelling associated with injuries.
• Superficial phlebitis, which is inflammation of superficial veins.
• Superficial thrombophlebitis and related venous conditions.
• Inflammation associated with varicose veins.
• In some markets, treatment or improvement of hard scars and certain scar-related conditions.

For instance, Malaysian registered information states that Hirudoid Cream is used topically for physical injuries with or without bruising, inflammation of veins and blood clotting in veins, and inflammation of varicose veins.3

Hirudoid is available in several formulations, with strengths varying by market.

Hirudoid Cream

Cream formulations are designed for topical application to treat bruises, hematomas, and superficial venous conditions. In Singapore, Hirudoid Cream 0.3 g/100 g is listed in the National Drug Formulary.1

Hirudoid Gel

Gel formulations contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredient but utilize a different vehicle. For example, UK products contain heparinoid 0.3% w/w and are indicated for superficial thrombophlebitis and symptomatic relief of superficial bruising and hematoma.2

Hirudoid Forte

“Hirudoid Forte” refers to a higher-strength formulation. In Singapore, Hirudoid Forte Cream contains 445 mg/100 g of mucopolysaccharide polysulfate.3 Germany and other European markets have historically used different strength conventions, including products expressed in international heparinoid units. STADA currently describes Hirudoid products in 25,000- and 40,000-unit presentations in various international markets.6

Hirudoid should not be confused with cosmetic moisturizers. While some users may apply it for general skincare due to its skin-conditioning properties, core Hirudoid products are medicinal preparations containing an active pharmacological ingredient.

In Singapore, products are classified under the medicinal ATC category C05BA01.1 This regulatory status means that Hirudoid is subject to medicine regulations rather than those governing cosmetics or general skincare products.

There is no single worldwide manufacturer for every Hirudoid product; the brand is marketed through different companies and license arrangements depending on the country.

• Singapore: Hirudoid products are listed with DKSH Singapore Pte. Ltd. as the licence holder. The product information identifies OLIC (Thailand) and, for some products, Mobilat Produktions GmbH in Germany as manufacturers.1
• Malaysia: The registered Hirudoid Cream listing identifies DKSH Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. as the product holder and OLIC (Thailand) Limited as the manufacturer.3
• Brazil: Hirudoid is marketed by Daiichi Sankyo Brasil Farmacêutica Ltda.7
• Europe: In various European markets, STADA currently markets Hirudoid products.6

Consequently, “Hirudoid” is best understood as an international brand whose ownership, licence holder, manufacturer, formulation, and registration differ by market. A Hirudoid product purchased in Singapore should not be assumed to have exactly the same strength or approved uses as one purchased in another country.

As a medicine, Hirudoid requires adherence to safety guidelines. Product information generally advises:

• Use externally only.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
• Do not apply to open wounds unless specified otherwise. Singapore product information specifically instructs users to apply Hirudoid Cream only to unbroken skin.1
• Do not use if hypersensitive to the active ingredient or any other component.
• Follow the directions provided for the specific country’s formulation.
• Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or unusual.

A rapidly enlarging hematoma, severe pain, unexplained bruising, or bruising in individuals taking anticoagulant medication warrants medical assessment rather than reliance solely on a topical product.

While related, Hirudoid and heparin are not identical.

Saying “Hirudoid is heparin cream” is an oversimplification, as MPS is a distinct heparinoid substance.

Hirudoid occupies a position between medicinal topicals, venous support, and injury care. Its strongest consumer association is with bruise and hematoma treatment, though its medical positioning extends to superficial venous inflammation.

The name Hirudoid evokes Hirudo, the taxonomic name associated with leeches, reflecting the historical connection between leech-derived anticoagulant concepts and heparinoid preparations. However, the modern product contains mucopolysaccharide polysulfate, not medicinal leeches or naturally occurring leech saliva.

Current regulatory sources show Hirudoid in markets across Europe and Asia, with Brazil maintaining a dedicated brand site and multiple formulations.78 The brand remains an established topical medicinal entity, though it is not a globally standardized single product; formulations and strengths vary significantly by region.

1. HIRUDOID CREAM 0.3 G/100 G [SIN04421P
2. Hirudoid Gel – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) – (emc
3. HIRUDOID ® FORTE CREAM 445 MG/ 100G [SIN14339P
4. Hirudoid Cream – Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) – (emc
5. HIRUDOID CREAM®
6. Hirudoid®
7. Hirudoid® – Daiichi Sankyo Brasil
8. Hirudoid – Brasil