Human papilloma virus, commonly referred to as HPV, is a virus that is typically transmitted through sexual contact. According to the MayoClinic.com, there are more than 100 strains of the HPV. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. HPV can affect both males and females. HPV can cause warts and, because it is a virus, there is no cure. Treatment is generally focused on removing the warts, although the virus can still be spread after their removal.
Imimiquod
Imiquimod is a medication prescribed for HPV. Imiquimod comes in the form of a topical cream and is applied to certain areas of the body. Imiquimod is designed to improve the immune system's ability to fight off HPV, according to MayoClinic.com. Aldara is a brand name form of imiquimod.
Podofilox
Podofilox is also a medication prescribed for HPV. Podofilox is applied as a topical cream to areas where genital warts have developed. Podofilox works to destroy the tissue of genital warts for removal, MayoClinic.com notes. Podofilox is available as the brand name Condylox.
Trichloroacetic Acid or Liquid Nitrogen
Trichloroacetic acid is a prescription solution used to treat genital warts that have developed as a result of contracting HPV. Trichloroacetic acid is applied to genital warts to burn them off, according to MayoClinic.com. Similarly, liquid nitrogen, commonly referred to as cryotherapy, can be used to remove genital warts. The liquid nitrogen is applied to the warts to freeze them. As the warts unthaw, the dead skin sloughs off removing the wart.
Electrocautery
Electrocautery is a delicate procedure where an electrical current is brought into contact with the warts. Applying an electrical current to the warts kills the tissue of the skin growths thereby burning off the warts. This procedure should only be performed by a licensed professional to prevent further infection.
