What is Verrutop?
Verrutop is a topical solution used in the treatment of cutaneous warts (commonly on hands and feet). Unlike cryotherapy or other destructive treatments, Verrutop works through a chemical desiccation process that dries out the wart tissue, leading to its gradual detachment without the need for cutting or freezing.
The active ingredients in Verrutop include a combination of nitric acid, zinc, copper salts, and organic acids, which work synergistically to destroy the wart tissue while minimising damage to the surrounding skin.
Clinical Indications and Efficacy
Verrutop is indicated for the treatment of non-genital cutaneous warts, including:
Common warts (verruca vulgaris)
Plantar warts (verruca plantaris)
Periungual and subungual warts (with caution)
Efficacy Data
Clinical studies and post-marketing experience suggest Verrutop has a clearance rate of 60–80% after multiple applications, particularly in:
Children (higher response rates due to more responsive immune systems)
Plantar and periungual warts
Cases resistant to cryotherapy or salicylic acid
In a 2020 multicenter observational study, Verrutop achieved complete resolution in over 70% of cases within 3–5 applications, with a low recurrence rate and high patient satisfaction.
How is Verrutop Used
Verrutop is a professionally applied treatment, meaning it should only be administered by a healthcare provider such as a dermatologist, podiatrist, or general practitioner trained in wart care.
Step-by-step application:
Preparation: The wart is cleaned, and in some cases, the hyperkeratotic (thickened) layer is gently removed using a scalpel to debride or file to allow better penetration.
Application: Verrutop is applied topically using a capillary micro-applicator directly onto the wart. Verrutop comes in a single-use ampoule. Only a small amount is needed.
Reaction: Upon contact, Verrutop reacts with the wart tissue, often turning it white or yellow. This indicates desiccation (drying) is occurring.
After application cleanse area with saline or chlorhexadine to deactivate solution.
Repeat if needed: The procedure may be repeated every 7–15 days depending on the wart’s response.
How Long is Verrutop Used For?
Treatment duration depends on several factors, including:
Size and number of warts
Location (e.g., hands vs. soles of the feet)
Patient’s immune response
Most warts resolve after 1 to 6 applications, spaced 1–2 weeks apart. On average, full clearance may be achieved in 4–6 weeks.
Contraindications:
Who Should Not Use Verrutop?
Verrutop is generally safe when used by trained professionals, but it’s not suitable for everyone.
Contraindications include:
Hypersensitivity or allergy to any of the ingredients
Facial or genital warts – these areas are too sensitive for this type of chemical treatment
Open wounds or infected lesions
Children under 6 years old (use in older children should be carefully assessed)
Pregnant or breastfeeding women – caution is advised due to lack of sufficient safety data
Immunocompromised patients – slower response to treatment or increased risk of recurrence
Allergy to Zinc, Copper or Nitric compounds
Side Effects:
Mild stinging or burning during application
Temporary local discoloration (white/yellow/black crusting)
Rarely: localized blistering or superficial ulceration
No systemic absorption or systemic side effects have been reported due to the localized, superficial action of Verrutop.
What Makes Verrutop Unique?
Unlike freezing (cryotherapy), cutting, or burning methods, Verrutop:
Is minimally invasive
Often causes less pain
Doesn’t require local anesthesia
Leaves minimal scarring
Can be used when other treatments fail
Final thoughts
Verrutop offers a modern, effective alternative to traditional wart treatments. Its ease of application, minimal discomfort, and high success rate make it an attractive option for both clinicians and patients.
If you're dealing with persistent warts and looking for a gentle yet effective solution, give Relief Podiatry a call to see if Verrutop is right for you.
