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Are there any prescription treatments for genital warts?

Genital warts are flat or cauliflower-like skin growths that typically appear on the penis, around the vagina, or around the anus. They are caused by a virus called human papilloma virus (HPV), and are spread through sexual contact. Prescription drugs and medical procedures are effective ways to treat them. But there is no cure for the virus that causes them. Genital warts are not easy to treat and may come back even after successful treatment.

Prescription drug treatments include imiquimod (brand name Aldara), a cream that you apply directly to the warts three times a week for up to 16 weeks. Imiquimod clears genital warts in about 50 percent of people treated. Podofilox (>Condylox) is another prescription gel or liquid that you apply directly to the warts twice a day, three times a week, for up to four weeks. Condylox clears genital warts in about 65 percent of people treated. You must be careful to avoid treating healthy skin as Condylox can irritate it. You may use these treatments at home.

Doctors may also remove genital warts with chemicals, freezing, or surgery. Chemical treatments require up to six applications and clear genital warts in about 70 percent of people treated. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is an example of a chemical treatment that should only be applied by a doctor. Cryosurgery (freezing) requires up to six treatments and clears genital warts in about 80 percent of people treated. Standard surgery usually takes one or two treatments and clears genital warts in about 70 percent of people treated.

The best treatment for genital warts depends on the specific type of warts and their location on the body.

Sources:
Anon. "1998 Guidelines for the Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases," Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 47 (1998).
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.
Gilson, R. “Sexually Transmitted Infections.” British Medical Journal. 322 (2001).
Diseases and Conditions, "Genital warts." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/16/2007.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2007.

This answer prepared 7/24/2001.
This information updated 1/16/2007.