Podophyllin resin

Podophyllin resin is a medicinal preparation derived from the American mandrake or Mayapple plant (Podophyllum peltatum). It is a brownish or greenish powder that is used primarily in the treatment of certain skin diseases, including warts and molluscum contagiosum.

History

Podophyllin resin has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. The Native Americans were known to use the Mayapple plant for a variety of medicinal purposes, including the treatment of warts. The active ingredient in podophyllin resin, podophyllotoxin, was first isolated in the 19th century.

Medical uses

Podophyllin resin is applied topically to treat certain skin conditions. It is most commonly used to treat genital warts, a sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). It can also be used to treat molluscum contagiosum, a viral skin infection that causes small, raised bumps on the skin.

Mechanism of action

Podophyllin resin works by inhibiting the growth of skin cells. The active ingredient, podophyllotoxin, binds to tubulin, a protein that is essential for cell division. This prevents the cells from dividing and growing, which helps to reduce the size and number of warts or bumps.

Side effects

Like all medicines, podophyllin resin can cause side effects. These can include skin irritation, redness, and swelling at the application site. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

See also

• Podophyllum
• Podophyllotoxin
• Genital warts
• Molluscum contagiosum