Last update Sept. 6, 2022

Podophyllotoxin

Likely Compatibility

Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.

In phytotherapy, the rhizome and root of the podophyllum plant (Podophyllum peltatum. Podophyllum emodi) are used. Contains podophyllotoxin and α and ß-peltatins. Podophyllum resin and podophyllotoxin have antimitotic action, are cytotoxic, and are used as topical treatment for anogenital and perianal warts (condylomata acuminata). Topical use.

Since the last update we have not found published data on its excretion in breastmilk.

Systemic absorption is very low. Plasma levels after skin application are negligible (<20 ng/ml) or undetectable. (AEMPS 2019, von Krogh 1982)

Do not apply it on extensive areas or for prolonged periods to avoid systemic absorption, and thoroughly wash hands after use.

It is very irritating, especially to the eyes and mucous membranes. Ingestion may cause severe systemic toxicity.

Do not apply on the breasts to prevent the infant from ingesting it.

The marketing of the podophyllum plant has been prohibited or restricted due to its toxicity in several countries. (MSC 2004)

Recommendations for Drugs in the Eleventh WHO Model List of Essential Drugs: compatible with Breastfeeding. (WHO 2002)

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Podophyllotoxin.

Suggestions made at e-lactancia are done by APILAM team of health professionals, and are based on updated scientific publications. It is not intended to replace the relationship you have with your doctor but to compound it. The pharmaceutical industry contraindicates breastfeeding, mistakenly and without scientific reasons, in most of the drug data sheets.

Jose Maria Paricio, Founder & President of APILAM/e-Lactancia

Your contribution is essential for this service to continue to exist. We need the generosity of people like you who believe in the benefits of breastfeeding.

Thank you for helping to protect and promote breastfeeding.

José María Paricio, founder of e-lactancia.

Other names

Podophyllotoxin is also known as


Podophyllotoxin in other languages or writings:

Tradenames

Main tradenames from several countries containing Podophyllotoxin in its composition:

Pharmacokinetics

Variable Value Unit
Molecular weight 414 daltons
pKa 14.02 -
1 - 4.5 hours

References

  1. Sanofi. Podofilox. Drug Summary. 2021 Full text (in our servers)
  2. AEMPS. Podofilotoxina. Ficha técnica. 2019 Full text (in our servers)
  3. MSC - Ministerio de Sanidad y Consumo de España. ORDEN SCO/190/2004, de 28 de enero, por la que se establece la lista de plantas cuya venta al público queda prohibida o restringida por razón de su toxicidad. BOE 2004; 32:5061-6065 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  4. WHO / UNICEF. BREASTFEEDING AND MATERNAL MEDICATION Recommendations for Drugs in the Eleventh WHO Model List of Essential Drugs. Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development (WHO/UNICEF) 2002 Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. von Krogh G. Podophyllotoxin in serum: absorption subsequent to three-day repeated applications of a 0.5% ethanolic preparation on condylomata acuminata. Sex Transm Dis. 1982 Jan-Mar;9(1):26-33. Abstract

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