Podofilox: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Podofilox is a topical medicine used to treat external genital warts and warts around the anus, also called perianal warts. Its pharmacological class is not formally classified, although it acts by interfering with cell division in wart tissue. It is also sold as Condylox and requires a prescription in the United Kingdom; generic podofilox has been available since 2002-01-29.

Podofilox interferes with the process that cells use to divide and multiply. This type of action is called an antimitotic effect. In wart tissue, disruption of cell division leads to damage and loss of the treated tissue.

Its action is directed at the tissue where it is used, rather than being a general treatment throughout the body. However, some medicine can be absorbed through the skin, and extra applications can increase absorption and local unwanted effects.

Podofilox gel is indicated for anogenital warts, meaning external genital warts and warts on the skin around the anus. The treatment is intended for these external skin lesions, not for warts on mucous membranes, such as internal moist surfaces. The prescriber identifies the specific warts that should be treated.

The label stresses that the lesions must be correctly identified, because some other skin conditions can resemble warts. It is not a treatment for squamous cell carcinoma.

The label lists topical gel at 5 mg/g and topical solution at 5 mg/mL. The label lists a gel treatment schedule of twice daily for 3 consecutive days, followed by a break for 4 consecutive days. The label lists repetition until no visible wart tissue remains, up to a maximum of four cycles.

The label lists a daily gel limit of 0.5 g and a treatment area limit of 10 cm 2 or less of wart tissue. The prescriber identifies the specific warts for treatment and explains the method. The label describes minimising contact with surrounding normal skin and allowing the gel to dry before opposing skin surfaces meet.

Incomplete response after the maximum course calls for stopping treatment and considering an alternative. More frequent application has not been shown to improve effectiveness and can increase local reactions and absorption.

Store the gel at 20-25°C. Avoid excessive heat and do not freeze.

Keep it out of reach of children. The product is flammable, so keep it away from open flames.

A missed application can interrupt the planned treatment schedule. Extra applications should not be used to make up for a missed application, as more frequent use can increase local reactions and absorption. Ask a pharmacist or the prescriber how to continue the treatment cycle if its timing is unclear.

There are no adequate, well-controlled studies of podofilox in pregnant women. Animal studies reported differing findings, including harmful effects on embryos in rats after administration into the abdomen. The label states that the gel should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

The label does not specify breastfeeding information. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.