How Long Should You Use Compound W?

Compound W is the brand name for a salicylic acid topical product created to remove warts. Warts are skin growths caused by the human papiloma virus (HPV). Warts are contagious but more than 50 percent of them disappear on their own within two years. Using Compound W may remove warts in a shorter period of time.

Features

• Warts can be removed in as little as one treatment, according to Prestige Brands, the product's manufacturer. The product removes common warts and plantar warts on the bottom of the foot.

Considerations

• Compound W comes in the form of a liquid, gel or pads. The liquid or gel is used once or twice per day until the wart is gone, however, this can take up to 12 weeks. Pads are applied every 48 hours as needed, until the wart is removed. This can also take up to 12 weeks.

Significance

• According to the manufacturer, if all or part of the wart remains after treatment, you can safely treat the wart again. The wart should not be treated more than three times in total.

Cautions

• Compound W should not be used on children under age four; it may cause permanent scarring. It should not be used if you are diabetic or have poor blood circulation because the wart may not heal properly. Pregnant and nursing women should not use the product because it is uncertain how it may affect the user.