Podofilox

Podofilox gel is indicated for the topical treatment of anogenital warts (external genital warts and perianal warts). This product is not indicated in the treatment of mucous membrane warts. Diagnosis Although anogenital warts have a characteristic appearance, histopathologic confirmation should be obtained if there is any doubt of the diagnosis. Differentiating warts from squamous cell carcinoma and "Bowenoid papulosis" is of particular concern. Squamous cell carcinoma may also be associated with human papillomavirus which should not be treated with podofilox gel.

Treatment of anogenital warts with podofilox results in necrosis of visible wart tissue. The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Pharmacokinetics In systemic absorption studies in 52 patients, topical application of 0.05 mL of an ethanolic solution containing 0.5% podofilox to external genitalia did not result in detectable serum levels. Applications of 0.1 to 1.5 mL resulted in peak serum levels of 1 to 17 ng/mL one to two hours after application. The elimination half-life ranged from 1.0 to 4.5 hours. The drug was not found to accumulate after multiple treatments 1.

The prescriber should ensure that the patient is fully aware of the correct method of therapy and identify which specific warts should be treated. Apply twice daily for 3 consecutive days, then discontinue for 4 consecutive days. This one-week cycle of treatment may be repeated until there is no visible wart tissue or for a maximum of four cycles. If there is incomplete response after four treatment cycles, discontinue treatment and consider alternative treatment. Safety and effectiveness of more than four treatment cycles has not been established. There is no evidence to suggest that more frequent application will increase efficacy, but additional applications would be expected to increase the rate of local adverse reactions and systemic absorption. Podofilox gel should be applied to the warts with the applicator tip or finger.

Podofilox gel is contraindicated for patients who develop hypersensitivity or intolerance to any components of the formulation.

Correct diagnosis of the lesions to be treated is essential. See the Diagnosis subsection of the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section. Podofilox gel is intended for cutaneous use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. If contact with the eyes occurs, patients should immediately flush the eyes with copious quantities of water and seek medical advice. Drug Product is Flammable. Keep Away from Open Flame.

In clinical trials with podofilox gel, the following local adverse reactions were reported during the treatment of anogenital warts. The severity of local adverse reactions were predominantly mild or moderate and did not increase during the treatment period. Severe reactions were most frequent within the first 2 weeks of treatment. Adverse Reaction Mild Moderate Severe Inflammation 32.2% 30.4% 9.3% Burning 37.1% 25.9% 11.5% Erosion 27.0% 20.8% 8.9% Pain 23.7% 20.4% 11.5% Itching 32.2% 16.0% 7.8% Bleeding 19.2% 3.0% 0.7% Other local adverse reactions reported included stinging (7%), and erythema (5%), less commonly reported local adverse events included desquamation, scabbing, discoloration, tenderness, dryness, crusting, fissures, soreness, ulceration, swelling/edema, tingling, rash, and blisters.

Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Do not freeze.