Salicylic Acid Cream in the Treatment of Warts

Salicylic acid is an ingredient in many topical medications used for the removal of many conditions, such as corns, calluses, dandruff, seborrhea and acne, as well as warts and plantar warts. Products are available over-the-counter.

Brands

• According to the Mayo Clinic, some common brands of topical medication for the treatment of warts include Compound W, Duofilm, Freezone, Wart-Off Maximum Strength and Clear Away.

Drug Interactions

• Before using a medication with salicyclic acid, consult your physician regarding possible drug interactions with your current medications. The Mayo Clinic provides a list of drugs that may result in increased risk of side effects. In addition, caution is advised if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease or liver disease.

Use

• The Mayo Clinic indicates that you should apply the cream and gently rub it into the wart. It should never be used for a longer period than the label recommends without your doctor's advice. In some cases, you may be instructed to use a dressing to cover the area.

Side Effects

• According to the Mayo Clinic, possible side effects from using a medication containing salicylic acid include skin irritation or stinging, dryness or peeling, redness, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, rapid breathing and drowsiness. Report these side effects to your doctor.

Precautions

• While using this medication, you should not use abrasive cleansers, preparations that contain alcohol, medicated cosmetics, drying cosmetics or soaps or any other topical skin medications.