Laennec is an injectable preparation made from a water-soluble hydrolysate of human placenta. It is produced by enzymatic extraction that releases the bioactive substances of placenta into a solution. It is classified as an ethical (prescription) drug and is used within professional medical and aesthetic practice.

Each 2ml ampoule contains 112mg of water-soluble human placenta hydrolysate as the active component. Pepsin (a porcine gastric extract) and lactose (of bovine milk origin) are used during the manufacturing process. The box contains 50 ampoules.

Human placenta naturally contains a variety of growth factors, cytokines, amino acids and peptides. The extraction concentrates these into the solution. Because the activity comes from the whole extract rather than any single isolated molecule, the preparation is characterized by its overall composition rather than one marker substance.

It is administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection by a qualified professional. The liquid is light yellow-brown with a distinctive odor and is close to isotonic. It should be kept in a dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25C, with a shelf life of three years from manufacture.

As an ethical drug, Laennec must be handled and administered only by licensed medical professionals, not self-administered. It is a human-derived biological product, so it should be avoided in anyone with known hypersensitivity to its components, and patient suitability must be assessed by the treating professional. Those with milk (lactose) allergy should note lactose is used in manufacturing.