Latex-free: who needs it and why it is standard now
Latex allergy can be severe, and reactions build with exposure. There is no reason to use latex in a dressing.
Natural rubber latex was once common in medical products. It causes allergic reactions in a small but significant proportion of people, and those reactions tend to worsen with repeated exposure.
Who is most at risk
- Healthcare workers, from frequent glove use.
- People who have had multiple surgical procedures.
- People with spina bifida.
- Anyone with a known reaction to certain fruits — banana, avocado, kiwi and chestnut share proteins with latex.
What a reaction looks like
Most commonly contact dermatitis: itching, redness and a rash where the product touched. More seriously, hives, wheezing or swelling, which needs urgent attention.
Our position
Every dressing, swab and closure strip in the FitMedix range is latex free. There is no performance reason to use latex in these products, so we do not.
See a pharmacist, GP or urgent care if a wound will not stop bleeding after ten minutes of firm pressure, is deep or gaping, was caused by something dirty or rusty, contains anything you cannot flush out, or shows spreading redness, heat, swelling, pus or a fever. Get help urgently for animal or human bites, wounds over a joint, and any wound in someone with diabetes or poor circulation.
Shop the range
FitMedix products are CE-marked medical devices intended for the care of minor wounds. This site does not provide medical advice — seek professional help for deep, dirty or non-healing wounds, or if signs of infection appear. Always read the instructions on the pack.