Indications
Podophyllotoxin is applied to the skin to treat external genital and anal warts (condylomata acuminata), which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is not for warts inside the vagina, cervix, urethra or anus, or for warts on other parts of the body unless a doctor advises.
How It Works
Podophyllotoxin is a purified plant extract that stops wart cells from dividing by blocking the structures (microtubules) cells need to split. The treated wart tissue then dies and gradually falls away over several days.
Dosage and Administration
For external use only. Adults: apply the solution (usually 0.5%) or cream (usually 0.15%) to the warts twice a day, morning and evening, for 3 days in a row, then stop for 4 days. This 7 day cycle can be repeated if warts remain, usually up to 4 cycles in total. Apply only to the warts, avoiding healthy skin, and let it dry before covering. Wash your hands after use. The first treatment is best shown by a doctor or nurse. If warts remain after 4 cycles, see your doctor.
Interactions
Do not use other wart treatments or irritating skin products on the same area at the same time. No important interactions with medicines taken by mouth are known, but tell your doctor about all medicines you use.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Podophyllotoxin or Podophyllin.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Children.
- Open wounds, broken or bleeding skin, or skin recently treated by surgery.
- Use together with other podophyllin-containing products.
Side Effects
Local reactions are common, usually on the second or third day as the warts start to break down: burning, soreness, redness, itching, tenderness and small sores at the treated site. These usually settle after treatment stops.
Get urgent medical help if a lot of the product has been swallowed or applied over a large area, or if you develop severe pain, bleeding, swelling, widespread skin reaction, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or confusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use in pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. Women who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment. Do not use while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Keep away from the eyes, mouth and healthy skin; if it gets into the eyes, rinse well with water. Use only on small areas and do not exceed the recommended amount or number of cycles. Avoid sexual contact while the treated skin is healing, and use condoms as warts and HPV can spread to partners. The product may be flammable: keep away from flames.
Overdose
Applying too much or swallowing it can cause severe skin reactions and, if absorbed, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, nerve damage and other serious effects. Wash it off and seek medical help immediately, taking the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antiwart agent (cytotoxic, antimitotic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, heat and flames, and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.