Sometimes we have health problems that are a little difficult to talk about, but are very important. Genital warts are one such thing. Although this is a bit of a sensitive topic, it is very important to be properly informed about this. If you have also been prescribed a gel called Podofilox by your doctor as a treatment for this condition, this article will be very useful for you. Let's talk about this medicine simply and clearly.
What is this medicine called Podofilox?
Simply put, Podofilox is a gel that doctors prescribe to remove warts that develop on the skin around the genitals and perianal area. These warts are caused by a virus called HPV (Human Papillomavirus). This medicine is applied to the warts, stopping their growth and removing them.
The most important thing is that this medicine should only be used under the advice of a doctor. It is not a good medicine to use as you please.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine
Before you start using this gel, it is essential that you clearly explain the following to your doctor:
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to Podofilox, podophyllum resin, or any other medicine, food, or dye, be sure to mention it.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, you should tell your doctor.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, also inform the doctor.
Based on this information, your doctor will be able to decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
How exactly do you use this gel?
To get the most out of this medicine, it's important to use it correctly. Let's see how.
1. For external use only: This is the most important thing. This medicine is for external use only. Do not take it by mouth or put it inside the vagina, rectum, or penis for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
3. Apply the medicine correctly: Use the special applicator that comes with it or a new cotton bud to apply the medicine. Imagine that you have a dot on your forehead. Apply it carefully so that the medicine only touches your forehead . If it gets on healthy skin, it can damage that skin and cause inflammation.
4. If you accidentally get the gel on healthy skin , immediately wash the area with plenty of water and rinse thoroughly.
5. Let it dry: After applying the gel, wait until it is completely dry before you can wear normal clothes.
6. Be careful with your eyes: Do not let this gel get into your eyes. If it does, it is an emergency. Immediately flush your eyes with water for about 15 minutes and go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
7. Follow medical advice: Do not use this medicine more often or for longer than prescribed by your doctor.
What if the dose increases (overdose)?
If you think you have overdosed, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to consider when using the medicine
- This is not a complete cure: While this medication can treat existing warts, it does not completely eliminate the HPV virus from the body. This means that new warts may develop during or after treatment.
- Check your progress: Stay in touch with your doctor regularly and talk about the progress of your condition.
- If there is no improvement: If you do not see any improvement after using it for about a week, tell your doctor. This treatment can usually be repeated for up to 4 weeks. If there is no improvement, your doctor will consider another treatment.
- Sexual health: Avoid sexual intercourse (genital, oral, anal) completely while the medicine is on your skin. This can transfer the medicine to your partner's skin. Also, if you have visible warts, it is safest to avoid sexual intercourse until they are completely healed. Remember that using a condom can reduce the spread of the virus to some extent, but it cannot completely stop it.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medication, this one can have some side effects. It's important to know what they are.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor immediately |
|
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist |
|
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children: This is very important. Do not leave the medicine where children can get it.
- Room temperature: Store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Do not refrigerate.
- Be careful with fire: This gel contains alcohol, so it is flammable. So keep it away from heat sources like stoves and open flames.
- After expiration: Throw away any medicine left after the expiration date.
This information sheet is only a summary. If you have any further questions about this medicine, please do not hesitate to talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Podofilox gel should only be used on the affected area. Do not let it touch healthy skin.
- Although this removes warts, it is not a medicine that completely removes the HPV virus from the body.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the medicine.
- Avoid having sex while the medicine is on your skin.
- If you get it in your eyes or suspect an overdose, go to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately.
- Always follow the instructions given by the doctor treating you.
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