podophyllin

Podophyllin is a cytotoxic resin extracted from the roots of Podophyllum peltatum (American mandrake) and Podophyllum hexandrum. It is primarily used topically for the treatment of benign skin growths such as genital warts (condylomata acuminata) and plantar warts. The principal active component in podophyllin is podophyllotoxin, which acts by inhibiting microtubule assembly through binding to tubulin dimers. This action arrests mitosis in metaphase and leads to cell death at the site of application. Podophyllin has been used in dermatology since at least 1820 and remains on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines[2][4][7]. It should be applied only by healthcare professionals due to its potential for systemic toxicity if misused.

Brand names

Podocon-25Podocon25Podocon 25Cantharone Plus

Other names

podophyllum resinpodophyllumAmerican mandrake resin