Abstract

Many topical preparations and dressings are claimed to help skin ulcers to heal. Non-medicated dressings are not considered to be medicines and so do not need a product licence or proof of clinical efficacy. Many have not been assessed in well controlled clinical trials. Nevertheless, some of them are listed in the Drug Tariff and so can be prescribed in general practice. This article attempts to guide prescribers and nurses through the jungle of products advocated for treating leg ulcers.