Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Cantharidin is used to treat molluscum contagiosum, a viral skin infection that causes raised, pearl-like bumps.
Cantharidin belongs to a class of medications called vesicants. The exact mechanism by which cantharidin treats molluscum contagiosum is not fully understood.
Uses and Dosage
Cantharidin is available as a solution (liquid) and is applied to the skin by a healthcare professional in a doctor’s office or clinic. It is typically applied directly to the areas with molluscum bumps once every three weeks, as needed.
After the medication is applied, it should dry completely (which can take up to 5 minutes) before you leave the doctor’s office. You should wash the treated area with soap and water 24 hours after the application. Avoid vigorously rubbing the skin or using abrasive materials like washcloths.
Topical cantharidin should only be applied to the skin and must not be used on the mouth, nose, eyes, or genital areas.
Do not touch the treated areas or allow the medication to come in contact with your eyes or mouth for 24 hours after application, or until the medication has been washed off.
Topical cantharidin can cause severe eye injuries, including scarring, ulcers, and permanent vision loss if it gets into the eyes. If this occurs, flush the eye with water for at least 15 minutes and seek emergency medical attention.
Avoid applying any topical products, including creams, lotions, sunscreen, or steroids, to the treated skin on the day of treatment and for 24 hours afterward, or until the medication is washed off. Do not wrap or bandage the treated areas.
Topical cantharidin may cause blistering or severe pain at the application site. If a severe reaction occurs within 24 hours of application, wash the area with soap and water and contact your doctor. Your doctor may recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), to alleviate these symptoms.
Topical cantharidin is flammable, even after it has dried on the skin. Avoid exposing the treated skin to fire or open flames during and after treatment until the medication is washed off.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- blistering
- erythema
- pain
- bleeding
- ring warts
- post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- lymphangitis
- secondary bacterial cellulitis
- scarring and varicelliform vesicular dermatitis
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe skin irritation
- blistering
- short-term pain after use
- change in color of skin at the application site
- eye contact reactions include ulcers or small holes in the eyes, irritation, scarring, severe eye pain, redness, and permanent eye injury including blindness
Caution
- Prior to using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergy you may have to it, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before initiating use, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have diabetes, poor blood circulation, or skin infection/irritation.
- During pregnancy, use this product only if absolutely necessary, and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Cantharone Topical Liquid is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Cantharone Topical Liquid topical liquid:
- 0.70 %
FAQ
How long does it take for Cantharone to work?
Two 3-month studies showed that up to 54% of people who received Cantharone had completely clear skin after just 4 treatments.
How do I know if Cantharone is working?
You’ll know that Cantharone is doing its job when you see blisters forming at the site of each lesion. Cantharone works by forming blisters to help get rid of the lesions. These blisters typically appear within the first 24 hours after your treatment session and start to heal after the first treatment.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/ycanth/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/cantharidin_topical/generic-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cantharidin-topical-application-route/description/drg-20554208
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-100465/cantharidin-topical/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a623044.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/cantharidin.html
