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Podophyllum resin topical solution

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-il-um) is used to treat external genital warts.

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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
  • peripheral vascular disease
  • skin conditions or sensitivity
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to podophyllum, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for external use only. It is given by a health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine 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 doctor or health care professional 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 asking your doctor or health care professional.

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 doctor or health care professional 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 medicine 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.

If you're a woman, do not get pregnant for at least 2 months after your last dose. If you do get pregnant, tell your doctor.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • muscle pain
  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
  • stomach pain
  • unusual bleeding or bruising

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

  • skin irritation at site of use

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 drug is given in a hospital or clinic and 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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