Pharmacologic treatment to improve venous leg ulcer healing.

Pharmacologic treatment for venous leg ulcers (VLUs) is an adjuvant treatment to compression therapy. It encompasses a variety of plant-derived and synthetic compounds with properties that alter venous microcirculation, endothelial function, and leukocyte activity to promote VLU healing. These compounds are often referred to as venotonics or venoactive drugs but have also been referred to as edema-protective agents, phlebotonics, vasoprotectors, phlebotropics, and venotropics. The exact mechanism of their ability to heal VLUs is not known; however, clinical trials support their efficacy. This evidence-based review assesses randomized clinical trials and meta-analyses with the objective of determining the effectiveness of venotonics to promote VLU healing.