Antiviral, antimitotic, cytolytic agent active against human papillomaviruses (HPVs)
Indications
External genital warts, perianal warts and vaginal warts
Forms and strengths
Podophyllum resin in alcohol or compound benzoin tincture, 10%, 15% and 25% solution for topical application
Use
Always apply a protective layer of vaseline or zinc oxide ointment on the surrounding skin prior to treatment.
Apply podophyllum resin to warts:
For external warts, leave on the warts for 1 to 4 hours then wash with soap and water.
For vaginal warts,allow to dry before removing the speculum.
Duration
Apply once weekly if necessary, for a maximum of 4 weeks.
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
Do not use to treat genital warts in children.
Do not apply to healthy skin or mucous membranes, or to warts > 3 cm, or to cervical, urethral, anorectal or oral warts.
May cause:
local reactions: erythema, ulceration, pain in area where applied;
systemic adverse effects: gastrointestinal disturbances, haematological and neurological disorders(possibly severe) in the event of prolonged or excessive application, or when applied to bleeding lesions.
Avoid contact with eyes. In case of eye contact flush immediately with plenty of water.
Pregnancy: CONTRA-INDICATED
Breast-feeding: CONTRA-INDICATED
Remarks
Use by preference 0.5% podophyllotoxin solution: it is as effective as podophyllum resin, but less irritant and toxic. Another advantage is that the patient may apply the solution to the warts himself; whereas the resin must always be applied by medical staff.
When treatment is contra-indicated or has failed after 4 weeks, change treatment method (cryosurgery, electrosurgery, surgical removal).