What formulation is available for the treatment of genital warts caused by HPV?

Imiquimod cream is specifically indicated for the treatment of external genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It is an immune response modifier that works by stimulating the body’s own immune system to fight the HPV infection. The mechanism involves the activation of immune cells and the production of cytokines, which helps to clear the warts.

Using Imiquimod is beneficial because it is self-administered and can be used in the privacy of one's own home, making it a convenient choice for many patients. It is typically applied to the affected area three times a week before bedtime and washed off in the morning.

Other agents, while they can be used for warts, have different applications or mechanisms. For instance, podophyllin solution and trichloroacetic acid are also used for treating genital warts, but they involve office-based procedures and may not be as suitable for at-home treatment. 5-fluorouracil is primarily used in the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers and certain precancerous conditions rather than specifically for HPV-related genital warts. Therefore, Imiquimod cream stands out as the most relevant option for treating genital warts caused by HPV in the specified formulation