Warts refer to growth that can occur anywhere on the skin, genitals, anus and rectum. Typically, warts are the result of the human papilloma virus. The Mayo Clinic says that specific wart signs include a small rough bump that is white, pink or flesh-colored. Left untreated, warts can spread to other people. Fortunately, prescription medications to treat warts exist.
Imiquimod
Imiquimod, commonly sold as Aldara, is a drug that belongs to a class of medicines known as immune response modifiers. Specifically, it increases the body's immune system and treats anal and genital warts. Imiquimod also treats basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Medline Plus says that imiquimod's milder side effects include headache, diarrhea, fatigue, back pain and flaking, dryness or skin thickening. Its serious side effects include a fever, chills, muscle weakness and sores. Call a doctor when imiquimod leads to these effects.
Kunecatechins
Kunecatechins, commonly sold as Veregen, is a medication that treats genital and anal warts. Drugs.com says that kunecatechins' serious side effects include redness, burning, itching of the skin, hardening of the skin and swelling, blisters or sores on the skin. Sometimes, kunecatechins can lead to an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the face, throat or lips. Call 911 when kunecatechins lead to these effects. Suffering from HIV or AIDS or a weak immune system may require a decrease in kunecatechins' dose. Kunecatechins is a topical ointment applied to the warts three times daily.
Podofilox Topical
Podofilox topical, commonly sold as Condylox, treats genital warts. Drugs.com says that it is supposed to remove these warts. The exact way it does this is unknown. Podofilox's milder side effects include pain during intercourse, an unpleasant odor and burning, itching or pain at the treated site. Podofilox's other side effects include an allergic reaction to podofilox or pain, bleeding or stinging at the treated site. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing and swelling of the tongue, face or tongue. Go to an emergency room when podofilox leads to these effects. Podofilox topical is applied to the affected region three times daily as prescribed.
