Smith & Nephew Opsite Spray-On Film Dressing

Smith & Nephew Opsite Spray-On Film Dressing is a transparent, spray-applied wound covering supplied as an aerosol canister rather than a pre-cut pad. It contains an acrylic polymer dissolved in a fast-evaporating solvent system, so that a few seconds after spraying a thin, invisible, flexible protective film is left on the skin over the wound.

This is a non-medicine wound-care device applied as a liquid spray rather than a pre-cut pad. Because it dries as a clear film moulded to the shape of the skin, it conforms closely to contoured areas such as knuckles, elbows, and other joints, unlike a flat pre-cut dressing.

When sprayed, the solvent in the formulation evaporates within seconds, leaving behind a thin, flexible acrylic polymer film bonded directly to the skin. This film behaves like a semi-permeable barrier: it blocks external water and bacteria from passing through from the outside while still allowing water vapour and oxygen to move across it, similar in principle to other polyurethane-type film dressings.

Clean and gently dry the wound and surrounding skin before use. Shake the can well, then hold it upright approximately 15-20cm from the skin and spray a thin, even layer directly over the wound and a small margin of surrounding intact skin, avoiding the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Allow the film to air-dry for about 30-60 seconds before covering with clothing, and reapply a fresh light layer if the film is washed off, rubbed away, or visibly damaged.

• Not applicable — this is not a medicine.

Use before the expiry date printed on the canister. As an aerosol product, its performance depends on internal pressure and the integrity of the seal; do not use the can if it appears damaged, punctured, or past its printed expiry.

Store the canister upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, open flames, and sources of heat, as aerosol containers can be pressure-sensitive. Keep out of reach of children and do not puncture, burn, or store the can at high temperatures.

• Common: A brief cooling or stinging sensation on application, especially on broken skin.
• Uncommon: Skin irritation, redness, or an allergic-type reaction to the acrylic film in sensitive individuals.

• Do not spray into the eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes, or use on deep, heavily bleeding, or infected wounds without medical advice.
• Avoid use in individuals with a known sensitivity to acrylic-based films or aerosol propellants.
• Use in a well-ventilated area and avoid inhaling the spray directly, particularly for people with respiratory conditions.

• Not applicable — this is not a medicine.

• Shake the canister well before each use for an even spray.
• Apply in a well-ventilated area and hold the can at the recommended distance to avoid an overly thick layer.
• Let the film air-dry fully before covering the area with clothing.
• Reapply a thin layer if the film is rubbed off, washed away, or visibly worn.
• Keep the can away from open flames or high heat, as it is a pressurised aerosol.
• Store upright and out of reach of children between uses.

Precautions: This spray forms a single thin film without an absorbent layer, so it is not intended for deep or heavily exuding injuries, and it should never be sprayed near the eyes or other mucous membranes. People with sensitive skin or a history of adhesive or acrylic sensitivity should watch for irritation after the first application.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical or pharmacist advice if a wound shows signs of infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, if bleeding is significant or does not stop, or if skin irritation from the spray persists or worsens.