Warticon (Wartec)

Warticon, also sold as Wartec, is an effective treatment for the sexually transmitted infection (STI) genital warts. It is used on warts located on the foreskin of the penis and external warts on the vagina.

If you have warts inside the urethra, vagina or rectum, you should consider different treatments.

This treatment is available as a cream or solution - containing the same active ingredient. The difference is in their consistency (the cream is thicker than the solution) and how they are applied - details are in the “How do I use Warticon” section. When used correctly, both versions are equally effective.

It is important that you do not have sex whilst you are presenting warts. Genital warts is a very contagious condition. To prevent spreading them to your partner, you should wait until they have gone, and use a condom. Even if you do not have warts, you will still be contagious.

Please note - the solution version of Warticon is flammable. Avoid smoking or going near open flames while, and shortly after, applying the solution.

Genital warts are caused by a particular strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The condition is passed on through sex and unfortunately has no cure - however, you may go through extended periods in your life where you do not have any outbreaks.

It is very important that you treat any outbreaks, as untreated warts can grow in size and multiply.

Warticon contains the active ingredient podophyllotoxin, a plant extract. It penetrates the wart tissue and targets the reproduction of the cells. Podophyllotoxin has a toxic effect on the nucleus of cells, which stops them from dividing and multiplying. Without this ability, the wart cells die and are replaced by healthy cells.

As this medicine targets warts directly, you should not use it on healthy tissue. Once blisters have gone, you should stop applying it.

You should always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist when applying any treatment.

The way that you apply Warticon will depend on whether it is a cream or solution (there is also a gel option - though this is not available to buy from HealthExpress).

For both versions of Warticon:

• use the treatment twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, for 3 consecutive days
• next, take a 4-day break
• you can repeat this process for a maximum of 4 times
• if there are no improvements after 4 times, do not start another course of treatment. Instead, please contact your doctor
• do not cover warts with a bandage after applying
• do not engage in sexual activity whilst using treatment
• wash your hands before and after applying

Cream

Warticon cream comes in a 5g tube with 1.5mg of podophyllotoxin in every gram.

A mirror is also included in the pack to help you apply the cream.

• first, wash the area you will be applying the cream to
• dry the area with a clean towel - this towel should not be used by others and should be washed
• place a small amount of cream on your fingertip
• rub the cream into the warts
• do not get cream on healthy skin - if you do, wash off immediately
• after application, wash your hands

Solution

The solution comes with a double-sided applicator. For more detailed instructions, please consult the patient information leaflet (PIL).

• make sure the area to which you are applying the solution is clean and dry
• apply the solution directly to the warts, so it coats the affected area in a thin film
• use a new applicator every time you apply the solution
• it is important not to use too much of the solution - make sure you are only using just enough to cover each wart
• use the applicator loop end for smaller warts, and use the spatula end for larger warts or clusters of smaller warts

Further information as to the usage of the treatment can be found in the PIL.

Do not use either of these treatments any other skin conditions - they will not work and may cause adverse effects.

Warticon does pose a small risk of side effects, but any that do occur will most likely be very mild and brief.

As this is a topical treatment, skin reactions generally relate to the site of application:

• soreness
• inflammation
• skin irritation
• balanoposthitis (inflammation of the foreskin and glans)

If you experience these effects more severely, or if they do not fade, you should contact your GP for further advice.

More serious side effects, especially those associated with an allergic reaction such as hives, a rash, shortness of breath or facial swelling should be reported to a doctor immediately. However, it is very unlikely you will experience an allergic reaction.

Most adults can use Warticon safely and effectively. However, there are some conditions and medications (including over-the-counter) that may make its use ineffective or dangerous.

You should ask your doctor about other treatment if:

• you are pregnant
• you are breastfeeding
• you are allergic to any of the ingredients of this medication
• your warts are located on broken or damaged skin
• you have considerably large warts or warts in the urinary tract (a more specialist treatment may be required)
• the patient is a child

What precautions should I take?

When using this treatment you should:

• avoid unprotected sex, until the infected skin has fully healed. If sexual intercourse does occur, a condom should be used
• dressings should not be used on the infected areas whilst using the cream
• avoid contact with your eyes. If this occurs, rinse them thoroughly with water and seek medical advice
• not apply cream or solution to any broken skin
• not apply to any internal warts

Yes, you can buy Warticon online from HealthExpress. Medication can be ordered today and will arrive tomorrow (with free next-day delivery), so you can begin your course with minimal disruption to your life.

You can also browse for alternative genital warts treatments, such as Aldara and Condyline. All orders are discreet and delivered in plain packaging.

When buying any prescription medication, an online consultation must be provided and then reviewed by a certified doctor. This is because certain ingredients can cause negative reactions. These are unlikely, but a doctor's review is essential to minimise harm.

You should provide your complete medical history and personal details in our online questionnaire. All data is encrypted and will not be shared with third parties.

Please note - the manufacturer of Warticon may differ from that shown in the image above, but the ingredients, benefits and possible side effects of the medication will be the same.

Is it safe to buy Warticon online?

Purchasing treatment online can save time and energy. However, when it comes to your health, you should not have to compromise.