Genital warts caused by HPV

External Gel for Genital Warts Caused by HPV in Men and Women

Genital warts can be treated and removed. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the warts. Genital warts are one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections. Genital warts affect the moist tissues of the genital area. They may look like small flesh-colored bumps or have a cauliflower-like appearance. In many cases, warts are too small to be visible. Genital warts can be treated and controlled.

OTC options include

Podofilox	A solution or gel that chemically damages the warts is applied. It contains the same active compound as podophyllin (with a prescription) but you can apply it at home. Using a cotton swab for the gel or your finger for the solution, apply to the visible warts twice a day for 3 days, followed by 4 days of no therapy. Can be repeated for up to 4 cycles.	Not recommended for use during pregnancy
Imiquimod	A cream that stimulates immune responses against warts. Apply cream once daily at bedtime, 3 times a week for up to 16 weeks. Wash area with soap and water after 6-10 hours after application.	Not recommended for use during pregnancy
Cryotherapy	Cryotherapy involves freezing warts with liquid nitrogen. This method destroys the infected cells and, over time, the warts should fall off.
Salicilic acid	Preparations are available in gels or collodion-based liquids (5%-17% salicylic acid), patches (12%-40%), and a karaya gum/glycol patch (15%). Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that slowly removes epidermal cells infected with HPV. The dosage forms also occlude the skin, and presoaking followed by occlusion aids the product’s action through maceration of the stratum corneum.	Patients may surround the wart with petrolatum to help prevent it from reaching healthy skin. Plasters/patches are cut to size, applied, and left on for 48 hours, after which a new one is applied.
Other topical creams	OTC creams or solutions can be applied directly to genital warts. Some of these medications contain substances that help destroy HPV-infected cells.	Liquids should be applied one or two times daily with the applicator.