Cantharone is a topical medication commonly used to treat certain skin lesions. The active ingredient in Cantharone is cantharidin, which is a blistering agent.
This article will serve as a complete guide to Cantharone, covering everything from how it works to treat skin issues, to its application, potential side effects, and other important factors to consider before treatment.
How Cantharone works
Cantharone’s active ingredient is cantharidin, a blistering agent harvested from blister beetles. Yup, that’s right: beetles. Cantharidin is a potent vesicant, which means it causes blistering.
When Cantharone is applied to the skin, the cantharidin causes acantholysis, a separation of epidermal or skin cells. This separation then leads to the formation of a blister. Your healthcare provider will then drain the blister and remove any dead tissue.
This sounds a little medieval, I know, but it’s an effective way to get rid of certain skin lesions.
Indications and uses
Cantharone is used to treat a few different skin conditions, as described below.
Common warts (verruca vulgaris)
Cantharone is often used to get rid of common warts, especially on the hands and feet. Usually, a trained healthcare professional applies it every 1 to 3 weeks until the wart is gone.
Molluscum contagiosum
Because it’s relatively easy to apply, Cantharone is frequently used to treat molluscum contagiosum in children. A key advantage is that it’s less invasive than some other treatments. On the other hand, it can cause blistering.
Other potential uses
Some studies have looked at whether Cantharone could be used to treat periungual warts (warts around the nails). Sometimes, a specialist might prescribe it for other benign skin lesions.
Administration and Application
Cantharone is potent stuff, so it’s important that a trained healthcare provider applies it to your skin. This will help to keep side effects to a minimum.
Professional Application
Before Cantharone is applied, the area will be cleaned thoroughly. Then, the medication will be carefully applied to the targeted lesion.
Dosage and Coverage
Your healthcare provider will apply a thin layer of Cantharone to avoid blistering beyond the area being treated. After the medication is applied, the area will likely be covered with a dressing to make sure the medicine penetrates the skin effectively and doesn’t spread to other areas.
Post-Application Care
After Cantharone has been applied, you can expect a blister to form within 24 to 48 hours. It’s important to keep the area clean and dry and to avoid popping the blister. If you have any questions or concerns about the treated area, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.
Side effects and risks
Like any medication, Cantharone can cause side effects. Here’s what you should know:
Common side effects
- Pain at the site where the medication was applied is common.
- It’s also possible that blistering will occur beyond the area you’re treating.
- You might also notice a change in the color of your skin, either darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation). These pigment changes are usually temporary.
Less common, more serious side effects
- If a blister breaks open, there’s a risk of secondary infection. Be sure to keep the area clean and covered.
- Some people may experience an allergic reaction, known as allergic contact dermatitis.
When not to use Cantharone
Don’t use Cantharone in these situations:
- On mucous membranes, such as inside your mouth or nose
- Near your eyes
- If you know you’re hypersensitive or allergic to cantharidin
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you buy cantharone over the counter?
No, you cannot buy Cantharone over the counter. It’s a prescription-only medication, meaning you need a doctor’s evaluation and a prescription to obtain it. This is due to its potential side effects and the need for proper application by a trained healthcare professional.
Why is cantharidin not FDA approved?
Cantharidin itself isn’t FDA-approved for direct sale to consumers or for widespread use in compounded medications. This is largely because of safety concerns related to its potency and potential for misuse. While it has legitimate medical uses, the FDA requires careful regulation to ensure patient safety.
How long does Cantharone take to work?
Cantharone typically takes several days to work. After application, a blister will usually form within 24-48 hours. Your doctor will then need to drain the blister, which may take up to two weeks to fully heal. The exact timeline can vary depending on the size and location of the wart or lesion being treated.
Wrapping Up
Cantharone is a topical medication that’s often used to treat warts and molluscum contagiosum. Because it’s so potent, Cantharone can only be applied by a trained healthcare professional.
To avoid possible side effects, it’s essential to carefully follow the directions for applying Cantharone. You’ll also need to follow your provider’s instructions for caring for the treated area after the application.
Although it requires some precautions, Cantharone can be a safe and effective treatment when administered by a healthcare provider and followed up with careful aftercare. If you’re interested in learning more about Cantharone, talk with your doctor or dermatologist about whether it might be right for you.