Indications
Condylox is a topical medication used to treat external genital warts (condyloma acuminatum) on the genitals and anus. It can be used to treat genital warts that appear on the outside of the body, but it is not a cure for genital warts.
Condylox contains the active ingredient podofilox. Podofilox belongs to a group of drugs called antimitotics. It prevents the growth of wart cells and causes them to eventually die and fall off.
Use and Dosage
Condylox solution is typically applied directly to the affected area twice daily for three consecutive days, followed by a four-day treatment break. It is for use on the skin only. Use Condylox Solution usually twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening, every 12 hours), for 3 days in a row, followed by no treatment for the next 4 days. If the warts do not go away, you may repeat this 7-day cycle up to a total of 4 treatment weeks in a row.
First wash the area to be treated with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. Use an applicator that comes with Condylox Solution, dip it into the solution just enough to wet it, but not so much that solution is dripping from the tip. Apply Condylox Solution only to the warts your doctor has directed you to treat. Do not apply it to the area surrounding the warts. It may help to use a hand mirror.
Only use the applicator once. Do not dip it into the solution again. Throw it away in a safe place after use. Wash your hands with soap and water after each application. Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other waterproof dressings. Covering the area with cotton gauze, or cotton underwear for the genital area, is permitted.
Use Condylox Solution regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use a calendar to mark the days you will be applying the medication each week.
Do not apply a large amount of this medication or apply it to a large area. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for details. Do not use it more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts after 4 weeks of treatment, or if it gets worse, or if new growths appear during treatment. Genital warts often return after treatment.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Condylox Solution (Podofilox):
- Bleeding
- Blistering
- Burning
- Crusting
- Dryness
- Itching
- Mild skin irritation
- Nausea
- Pain during sex
- Peeling
- Redness
- Scarring
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Swelling of the skin where the medicine was applied
- Tenderness
- Tingling
- Unpleasant skin odor
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Condylox Solution (Podofilox):
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Serious eye symptoms such as: sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
- Serious heart symptoms such as: fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in your chest; shortness of breath; and sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
- Severe itching, burning, oozing, bleeding, or skin changes where the medicine is applied
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
Forms and Strength
Condylox Solution (Podofilox) is available in the following forms and strength:
Condylox Solution: Solution
- 0.5%
Cautions
- Do not have sex during treatment with Condylox Solution, as the medication can irritate the skin and increase the risk of spreading the virus to your partner.
- Condylox Solution is a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Condylox Solution is for external use only and should not be used on internal genital warts, such as those inside the vagina or anus.
- Condylox Solution should not be used by pregnant women, as it may harm the developing fetus.
- Condylox Solution should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as HIV or AIDS, or who are taking certain medications, as it may interact with these conditions or medications.
- Condylox may cause skin irritation, redness, or burning at the site of application, and should be used with caution in people with sensitive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Condylox Solution to work?
Condylox Solution usually starts working within a few days of starting treatment. Most people find that their warts start to shrink and disappear within a few weeks.
What should I do if I accidentally apply Condylox Solution to healthy skin?
If you accidentally apply Condylox Solution to healthy skin, wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible. If you experience any pain or discomfort, seek medical attention.
How can I prevent the spread of HPV and genital warts?
The best way to prevent the spread of HPV and genital warts is to practice safe sex, which includes using condoms during sexual activity. Additionally, getting the HPV vaccine and being in a monogamous relationship can also reduce your risk of contracting the virus.
What should I do if my genital warts do not go away with treatment?
If your genital warts do not go away with treatment, you should contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend a different treatment or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1057-9193/condylox-topical/podofilox-solution-topical/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/condylox-topical-drug.htm
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=affc1058-7355-4486-8b65-378fea6f9454
- https://www.goodrx.com/podofilox/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/1997/020529s000lbl.pdf
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