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Medication for HPV

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a virus that can sometimes cause genital lesions or growths. These can include genital warts. Though the virus cannot be cured, there are many treatments that can address the symptoms.

  1. Cures

    • There is no cure for HPV. According to Mayo Clinic, the immune system typically rids itself of the virus. There are medications available to help, however.

    Medications

    • Some of the medications include creams. Imiquimod is a cream that will enhance the immune system to help fight off the lesions, and Podofilox may destroy the lesions. These are the most common medications available.

    Side Effects

    • Some of the side effects of Imiquimod include blisters, chills, loss of voice, nasal congestion, skin rash, wheezing, skin redness, sneezing, and shiny bumps. Podofilox side effects include itching, burning sensation on skin, redness or swelling, skin ulcers, blistering, bleeding of treated skin, and pain.

    Usage

    • Both of these creams are applied directly to the lesions or warts with an applicator. According to Mayo Clinic, the applicator should never be used twice.

    Warning

    • These medications do not prevent genital warts from spreading. They only help relieve the symptoms and destroy the warts and lesions.

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