Kaolin and zeolite are clay-based agents that accelerate the body's own clotting cascade, so they require functional platelets and clotting factors to work, and zeolite can generate heat. AllaQuix® High-Performance (chitosan) works by a charge-based mechanism: its positively charged molecules bind the negatively charged membranes of red blood cells to form a stable seal independent of the clotting cascade, with no thermal reaction.

AllaQuix® High-Performance is made from chitosan, which is derived from shellfish, but the deacetylation process removes the proteins responsible for allergic reactions. A study in Military Medicine ("Safety of Chitosan Bandages in Shellfish Allergic Patients") found that all subjects with documented shellfish allergy tolerated the chitosan dressing without reaction. AllaQuix® Lite and Nose Bleed use calcium alginate (a plant-derived fiber, not shellfish).

High-Performance controls bleeding through a mechanism independent of platelets and coagulation factors, so it does not rely on the pathway anticoagulants suppress. It is well suited for patients on warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Pradaxa, Plavix, or aspirin who have trouble stopping minor bleeding.

High-Performance (chitosan) is for active bleeding control: anticoagulant patients, trauma, harder bleeds. Lite (calcium alginate) is for moderately to heavily draining wounds and post-procedure care, absorbing up to 20× its weight while supporting hemostasis at the wound site. Many practices keep both: chitosan for active bleeding, alginate for the wound site.

All AllaQuix® dressings are sterilized by gamma irradiation.

Yes. See The Science of AllaQuix® for the chitosan hemostasis literature, including the Military Medicine shellfish-allergy safety study and references on chitosan's hemostatic, bacteriostatic, and wound-healing properties.

AllaQuix® Lite and Derm may be eligible for reimbursement under HCPCS code A6196 when medically necessary and used as directed. Reimbursement is not guaranteed: coverage and payment depend on patient eligibility, medical necessity, site of service, and payer policy. Providers are responsible for determining appropriate coding and coverage.

AllaQuix® is not for medical emergencies, arterial bleeding, severe or persistent bleeding, or internal use. It does not replace stitches and should not be used on visibly infected wounds. It is intended for minor topical bleeding only.