Podophyllum
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Topical antimitotic for treatment of equine sarcoids and papillomas; caustic cytotoxic compound.
Plant-derived antimitotic (podophyllin resin). Mechanism: binds tubulin → inhibits microtubule assembly → arrests mitosis in metaphase → cell death in rapidly proliferating cells. Caustic cytotoxic effect on local application. Used topically for equine sarcoids and papillomas. Toxic if ingested — do not use on mucous membranes or broken skin.
Key information
Homeopathic/herbal preparation. Store per label. Not a conventional drug — limited evidence base.
How to Give this Medication
Topical application (by veterinary professional only): protect surrounding normal skin with petroleum jelly. Apply thin layer to sarcoid/papilloma only using gloved applicator. Allow to contact target tissue per prescribed protocol. Limit application area strictly to the lesion. Dispose of applicators safely. Store at room temperature; protect from light. Protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Local: severe irritation, erosion, ulceration at application site (caustic). Systemic absorption risk from large treatment areas: nausea, vomiting, CNS depression, peripheral neuropathy, bone marrow suppression. Teratogenic — do not use in pregnant animals or apply near pregnant handlers.
Precautions
For animals
Topical only — caustic. Apply only to abnormal tissue (sarcoid/papilloma) using appropriate protection for surrounding skin (petroleum jelly/barrier). Do not use on mucous membranes. Avoid in pregnant animals. Systemic absorption from large treatment areas can cause severe toxicity.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. HIGHLY TOXIC and TERATOGENIC. Wear chemical-resistant gloves at ALL times. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Must NOT be handled by pregnant women — causes severe fetal defects. Caustic — causes necrosis on normal skin and mucous membranes. Avoid all skin, eye, and mucous membrane contact. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Contact Poison Control if ingested. Dispose of properly. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Podophyllum is a potent cathartic — overdose causes severe GI signs and systemic toxicity.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)