cantharidin

Cantharidin is a naturally occurring terpenoid vesicant produced by blister beetles. It is an odorless, colorless fatty substance used topically in dermatology. The primary FDA-approved indication for cantharidin is the treatment of molluscum contagiosum in adults and children 2 years of age and older. In Canada and other regions, it is also approved for common warts (verruca vulgaris), periungual warts, and as part of combination products for plantar warts[4][5][6]. Its mechanism of action in treating molluscum contagiosum remains unknown; however, it acts as a vesicant (blistering agent) that induces acantholysis by targeting desmosomal structures within the skin[2][6][8]. Historically known as "Spanish fly," cantharidin has been used both therapeutically and illicitly due to its potent biological effects.

Brand names

YcanthCantharone PlusCanthacurCanthacur PS

Other names

Spanish fly