PODOPHYLLUM (Topical)

Brand & Generic Names

Podofin

Basic Information

• Habit forming? No
• Prescription needed? Yes
• Available as generic? No
• Drug class: Cytotoxic (topical)

Uses

Treats venereal warts (condylomata acuminata).

Dosage & Usage Information

How to use:
Apply petroleum jelly on normal skin surrounding warts.
With a glass applicator or cotton swab, carefully apply podophyllum to the warts.
Wash hands immediately after application.
Allow to remain on warts for 1 to 6 hours after application, then remove with soap and water.

When to use:
Follow doctor's instructions. Usually at 1-week intervals.

If you forget a dose:
Apply it as soon as you remember. Return to regular schedule.

What drug does:
Kills cells and erodes tissue.

Time lapse before drug works:
Up to 4 weeks.

Don't use with:
Any other medicines (including over-the-counter drugs such as cough and cold medicines, laxatives, antacids, diet pills, caffeine, nose drops or vitamins) without consulting your doctor.

Overdose

SYMPTOMS:
The following symptoms occur when the body absorbs too much podophyllum: Seizures, painful urination, breathing difficulty, dizziness, heartbeat irregularity, numbness and tingling of hands and feet, abdominal pain, excitement, irritability.

WHAT TO DO:

• Dial 911 (emergency) or O (operator) for an ambulance or medical help. Then give first aid immediately.
• See EMERGENCY Information.

Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects

Life-threatening:

In case of overdose, see Overdose Section.

Common:

Burning, red skin.

Infrequent:

Skin rash, hallucinations, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, unusual bleeding.

Rare:

In case of overdose, see Over

Warnings & Precautions

Don't use if:
Warts are crumbled and bleeding.

Before you start, consult your doctor:
If you have used podophyllum before.

Over age 60:
No special problems expected.

Pregnancy:
Risk to unborn child outweighs drug benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Drug passes into milk. Avoid drug or discontinue nursing until you finish medicine. Consult doctor for advice on maintaining milk supply.

Infants & children:
No special problems expected.

Prolonged use:
Increased chance of adverse reactions.

Skin & sunlight:
No problems expected.

Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
Avoid if you feel confused, drowsy or dizzy.

Discontinuing:
No special problems expected.

Others:

• Advise any doctor or dentist whom you consult that you take this medicine.
• Keep away from eyes, nose and mouth.
• Don't use on moles or birthmarks.
• Don't use near heat or open flame.

Possible Interaction with Other Drugs

GENERIC NAME OR DRUG CLASS	COMBINED EFFECT

Possible Interaction with Other Substances

INTERACTS WITH	COMBINED EFFECT
---------------	---------------
Alcohol:	Increased chance of central nervous
	system stimulation. Avoid.
Beverages:	No special problems expected.
Cocaine:	Increased chance of central nervous
	system stimulation. Avoid.
Foods:	No special problems expected.
Marijuana:	Increased chance of central nervous
	system stimulation. Avoid.
Tobacco:	Podophyllum is inflammable. Don't
	use while smoking.