Sodium tetradecyl sulfate

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) is a commonly used sclerosant, a substance injected into blood vessels or lymph vessels causing them to shrink. It is commonly used in the treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Chemical Structure

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is an anionic surfactant which is a compound of a 14 carbon chain (tetradecyl) attached to a sulfate group. The sulfate group gives the compound its anionic property and solubility in water.

Medical Uses

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is used in sclerotherapy, a procedure used to treat blood vessels or blood vessel malformations. It is injected into the vein causing the vein walls to stick together and blood to clot. This leads to shrinkage of the vein. It is commonly used to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Side Effects

Common side effects of sodium tetradecyl sulfate include pain at the injection site, vein inflammation, and changes in skin color. More serious side effects can include allergic reactions, blood clots, and damage to surrounding tissues.

Pharmacology

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate works by damaging the endothelium, the cells lining the inside of blood vessels. This causes blood platelets to attach to the lining of the vessels; eventually, a clot is formed. Over time, the clot is replaced with tissue.

History

Sodium tetradecyl sulfate was first approved for medical use in the United States in 1946. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system.

See Also

• Sclerotherapy
• Varicose veins
• Hemorrhoids