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Podophyllum Resin Tincture

Podophyllum is a topical solution that treats genital warts. This is a type of sexually transmitted infection that causes small bumps to form in and around your genitals including your vagina, anus and penis. This solution is for external use only.

What is this medication?

PODOPHYLLUM (poe DOF ilum REZ in) treats warts on and around the genital area caused by a virus. It does not kill the virus and it may still be possible to spread the virus to others. It will not treat infections caused by bacteria.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Podocon-25

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Diabetes (high blood sugar)
  • Skin conditions or disease
  • Urethral, vaginal, or rectal warts
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to podophyllum, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. It is given by a care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress.

Females should receive regular pelvic exams while being treated for genital warts. Most patients see improvement within 4 weeks. It may take up to 16 weeks to see a full clearing of the warts. This medication is not a cure. New warts may develop during or after treatment. The only way to prevent infecting others with the HPV virus (the virus that causes genital warts) is to avoid direct skin-to-skin contact. If warts are visible in the genital area, sexual contact should be avoided until the warts are treated. The use of latex condoms during sexual contact may reduce, but not entirely prevent, infecting others.

Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy or for 2 months after stopping it.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Burning or tingling sensation in hands or feet
  • Fever
  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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