Fluorouracil (5-FU) for Genital Warts (Human Papillomavirus)

Fluorouracil has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Reference genital warts Opens New Window. Using fluorouracil to treat genital warts is an Reference unlabeled use Opens New Window of the medicine.

Application of 5% cream

Fluorouracil is applied 1 to 3 times a week for several weeks as needed to clear the warts. To reduce skin sensitivity, the cream can be washed off 3 to 10 hours after it is applied.

The surrounding normal tissue can be protected with petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) or another ointment to prevent irritation. For men, the skin at the tip of the penis should be protected with an ointment.

You should not wear tight-fitting underwear, because it might smear the medicine to other areas.

A skin reaction may not occur until 3 to 4 days after the cream is applied. If the reaction is severe, you should stop treatment.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.