What it does
Podophyllin is a medication used to treat certain skin conditions, particularly warts.
Commonly used for: genital warts, plantar warts
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:38 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:03
About this medicine
Podophyllin is a medication used to treat certain skin conditions, particularly warts.
What it treats
- genital warts
- plantar warts
How it works
Podophyllin works by stopping the growth of warts and helping to remove them from the skin.
Who it's for
Podophyllin is for adults and children with specific types of warts.
Cautions
- • Avoid contact with healthy skin.
- • Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: podophyllin
BNF-referencedPodophyllin is a cytotoxic topical agent primarily used in the treatment of genital warts. It is derived from the roots of the Podophyllum plant and contains podophyllotoxin as its active component. It works by inhibiting cell division and promoting tissue destruction, making it effective in managing conditions characterized by excessive cell growth.
Indications
- Genital warts
- Condylomata acuminata
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Podophyllin acts as a cytotoxic agent that arrests mitosis in metaphase, disrupting normal cellular processes. This mechanism is similar to that of vinca alkaloids, leading to impaired cell division and gradual destruction of abnormal tissue.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effect of podophyllin involves the arrest of cell division, which disrupts cellular processes and leads to the deterioration of targeted cells. This results in the effective treatment of lesions such as genital warts, where abnormal cell proliferation occurs.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of podophyllin, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, have not been extensively detailed. However, as a topical agent, its systemic absorption is minimal when applied correctly. The active component, podophyllotoxin, is primarily responsible for its therapeutic effects.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to podophyllin or any of its components
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Skin irritation
- Erythema
- Burning sensation at the application site
- Allergic reactions
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with compromised skin integrity
- Avoid contact with healthy skin and mucous membranes
- Not for use in large areas of the skin or in cases of extensive lesions
Pregnancy
Podophyllin is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects.
Breast-feeding
Limited data available; consult a healthcare provider for risk assessment.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light.
Formulations
- Topical solution
- Cream
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: podophyllin
PubChem CID 11979494Molecular formula: C88H92O34
Mechanism of action
Podophyllin is a cytotoxic agent that has been used topically in the treatment of genital warts. It arrests mitosis in metaphase, an effect it shares with other cytotoxic agents such as the vinca alkaloids. The active agent is podophyllotoxin.
Pharmacodynamics
Cell division is arrested and other cellular processes are impaired, gradually resulting in the disruption of cells and destruction of the tissue.
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.