Varithena: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Varithena?
A vein specialist, such as a vascular surgeon, a doctor who treats blood vessels, gives Varithena. Varithena is an injectable foam used to treat certain varicose veins. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Varithena is the brand name of polidocanol injectable foam. It is a drug and device combination product that makes injectable foam. It is a sclerosing agent, which is a medicine that blocks the vein. The foam pushes blood out of the vein that is being treated, and then the medicine, polidocanol, acts on the vein.
The NHS describes foam sclerotherapy, a similar foam injection treatment. It uses injections into a vein of a chemical mixed with air, called foam. The chemical blocks the vein, so that blood stops flowing through it.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Varicose veins happen when the valves that control the flow of blood in your vein do not work properly. The FDA label says Varithena treats incompetent great saphenous veins, accessory saphenous veins, and visible varicosities of the great saphenous vein system above and below the knee. It improves the symptoms of superficial venous incompetence and the appearance of visible varicosities.
How to prepare
Tell your doctor if any of the following apply to you.
- Reduced mobility
- A history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Major surgery within the last 3 months
- A long hospital stay
- Pregnancy
The label says people with these things are at increased risk for developing thrombosis, which means blood clots. Varithena must not be used in people with a known allergy to polidocanol. It also must not be used in people with acute thromboembolic disease, a current blood clot condition.
What happens during it
Varithena is given by injection into a vein, using ultrasound guidance. The NHS says you will be awake for foam sclerotherapy, a similar foam injection treatment. You will have a local anesthetic. You will not feel any pain. Compression bandages and stockings are put on, and you walk for at least 10 minutes while the team watches you.
Recovery
The NHS says that after foam sclerotherapy you can usually go home the same day, and you may have some pain and bruising. For Varithena, the FDA label gives these instructions. Keep your post-treatment bandages dry and in place for 48 hours. Wear compression stockings on the treated legs continuously for 2 weeks. Walk for at least 10 minutes right after the procedure and daily for the next month. Avoid heavy exercise for 1 week and long periods of inactivity for 1 month. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, coughing up or vomiting blood, or bleeding that will not stop.
Risks and side effects
Varithena can cause venous thrombosis, which means a blood clot in a vein. Your doctor should follow the instructions closely and watch for signs of venous thrombosis after treatment. Common side effects include the following.
- Pain or discomfort in the treated limb
- A blood clot at the injection site
- Bruising or pain where the shot is given
Severe allergic reactions have been reported with liquid polidocanol, including some that were fatal. Doctors should watch you for at least 10 minutes after the injection. Injection into an artery or leaking of the medicine out of the vein can cause severe tissue damage or gangrene.
Who performs it
A vein specialist, such as a vascular surgeon, performs the treatment. The NHS says foam sclerotherapy is done in a hospital or clinic. A doctor may refer you to a specialist for tests and treatment.
Common questions
Is Varithena approved by the FDA?
Yes, Varithena first received U.S. approval in 2013.
How long do I wear compression stockings after Varithena?
You wear compression stockings on the treated legs continuously for 2 weeks. Compression stockings should be thigh high or knee high, depending on the area treated.
Does Varithena cause blood clots?
Yes, Varithena can cause venous thrombosis, which means a blood clot in a vein.
Will I be awake for foam sclerotherapy?
Yes, the NHS says you will be awake during foam sclerotherapy, a similar foam injection treatment. You will have a local anesthetic. You will not feel any pain.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance.
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam) prescribing information
- NHS - Varicose veins
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
