Compound W Gel
Prescription Not Required
Indications
Compound W Fast Acting Gel is a wart removal treatment that uses salicylic acid as the active ingredient. It is designed to remove common and plantar warts with its no-drip, maximum-strength gel formula. It is sold over the counter but can also be found at drug stores and online retailers.
Use and Dosage
Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is for use on the skin only. To avoid irritation, do not let this medication come in contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, groin, or any broken skin. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush the area with cool water for 15 minutes. Wash hands after use.
First, soak the corn, callus, or wart in warm water for about 5 minutes to soften the treatment area. Dry thoroughly. Your doctor may direct you to use a pumice stone, callus file, or emery board to carefully remove the top dead layers of skin after soaking and before applying the medication. This dead skin removal is only to help the medication work well. Do not try to rub the wart or callus off.
If you are using a liquid/gel, apply a few drops or a thin coat of the medication to cover the entire wart, callus, or corn using the applicator if provided. Be careful to apply it only to the affected area and not the surrounding skin. Let it dry for 5 minutes. Depending on the brand used, you may need to apply the medication twice with each treatment. Check your product package and follow the directions carefully. You may cover the area loosely with a bandage. Repeat this procedure 1 to 2 times daily for up to 2 weeks for corns and calluses and 12 weeks for warts or as directed by your doctor.
If you are using a medicated pad or bandage, you may need to cut the pad so that it covers the treatment area completely but does not touch the surrounding skin. Peel off the protective covering and place the patch/bandage over the area. Leave in place according to package directions. Remove and place a new patch/bandage as directed (usually every 8 to 48 hours depending on brand). Repeat this procedure for up to 2 weeks for corns and calluses and 12 weeks for warts.
Dosage is based on your medical condition, product type/brand, and response to treatment. Do not use large amounts, apply this medication more often, or use it for a longer period than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Compound W can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. These reactions may occur just a few minutes after you apply the medicine or within a day or longer afterward.
Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; difficulty breathing, feeling light-headed; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Also, stop using Compound W and call your doctor at once if you have:
- Severe headache, ringing in your ears, problems with hearing, or thinking problems
- Severe stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
- Shortness of breath
- Severe burning, dryness, or irritation of the skin
Common side effects of Compound W may include:
- Minor skin irritation, rash, or peeling
- Changes in the color of treated skin (usually whitening)
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.
Cautions
Before using salicylic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes, poor blood circulation (such as peripheral vascular disease), and skin infection/irritation.
If you are going to have an MRI test, tell testing personnel if you are using the patch. Some patches may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI. Ask your doctor whether you will need to remove your patch before the test and apply a new patch afterward, and how to do so properly.
During pregnancy, this product should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strengths
Compound W Gel is available in the following form and strengths:
- Compound W Gel:
- 0.05 %
FAQ
What happens if I miss a dose?
Compound W is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed doses. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.
What should I avoid while using Compound W?
Avoid using Compound W, on open wounds or sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin.
Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.
This medicine may be flammable. Do not use near-high heat or open flame. Wash the medicine off your hands before handling a hair styling appliance (such as a curling or straightening iron). The high heat could cause the medicine to ignite and burn your skin. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with Compound W unless your doctor tells you to.
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Additional information
Brand Name: |
Compound W Gel |
|---|---|
Scientific Name: |
Salicylic acid – non Rx |
Other Names: |
Compound W Gel |
Strength(s): |
17% |
Quantities Available: |
7g |
Formulation: |
Gel |
