From the Guidelines
Cantharone (cantharidin) is a viable treatment option for warts, with a study showing clearance of warts in all 15 patients within 16 weeks with one to four treatments 1. This treatment works by creating a blister under the wart, causing it to separate from the skin. The application of cantharidin is typically painless, with discomfort developing only when blistering occurs in the 24 hours following application 1. Some key points to consider when using cantharone for wart treatment include:
- It is a blistering agent that triggers acantholysis, reducing the risk of scarring due to its superficial nature of injury 1
- The treatment has the advantage of painless application, with discomfort developing only when blistering occurs in the 24 hours following application 1
- A study of 15 patients who were treated with a cantharidin 0.7% solution to treat plane facial warts showed clearance of warts in all 15 patients within 16 weeks with one to four treatments 1 However, it is essential to note that cantharidin is highly toxic when taken systemically 1. In terms of administration, cantharone is typically applied by healthcare providers in-office, not by patients at home, to avoid any potential complications. The provider applies a small amount directly to the wart using an applicator, avoiding surrounding healthy skin, then covers it with a bandage. After 24 hours, the bandage should be removed and the area washed thoroughly. The treatment causes a blister to form within 24-48 hours, which eventually dries and falls off, taking the wart tissue with it. Multiple treatments spaced 1-4 weeks apart are often needed for complete resolution. It is crucial to follow the recommended guidelines and consult a healthcare professional before using cantharone for wart treatment.
From the FDA Drug Label
NDC 72934- 9035-9 CANTHARIDIN 0.7%. Liquid 15 gm The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Cantharone Use for Wart Treatment
- Cantharidin, also known as cantharone, is a chemical compound used in the treatment of warts, particularly plantar warts 2, 3.
- The use of cantharidin in combination with podophyllotoxin and salicylic acid has been shown to be effective in treating plantar warts, with higher cure rates compared to cryotherapy 2.
- A study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology found that topical application of a cantharidin-podophyllotoxin-salicylic acid formulation was more effective than cryotherapy in treating plantar warts, with 14 out of 26 patients achieving complete clearance of their warts 2.
- Another study published in The American Journal of Case Reports reported a case of a 53-year-old woman with multiple recalcitrant plantar warts who was successfully treated with a cantharidin-podophyllin-salicylic acid formulation after failing other treatments, including cryotherapy and nitric-acid-zinc complex 3.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Cryotherapy is a common treatment for cutaneous warts, but its effectiveness varies depending on the type of wart and location, with higher cure rates reported for common warts compared to plantar warts 4.
- Salicylic acid is another treatment option for cutaneous warts, but its effectiveness is generally lower compared to cryotherapy, especially for common warts 4.
- A review of destructive therapies for cutaneous warts published in the Australian Journal of General Practice found that cantharidin is one of several chemical and physical therapies that can be used to treat warts, but noted that few treatment options have been studied through randomized controlled trials 5.
Considerations for Treatment
- The choice of treatment for warts depends on several factors, including the location and type of wart, as well as the patient's overall health and lifestyle 3, 5.
- Treatment of warts should be individualized, taking into account the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option, as well as the patient's preferences and values 5.
- Hygienic practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding sharing personal items, can help prevent the transmission of warts 5.