Comparative efficacy of topical garlic extract and 20% podophyllin solution in the treatment of female genital warts: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial.
Mohsen Naseri, Zahra Sarfallah, Mina Saadat et al.
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In 30 seconds
This triple-blind randomized clinical trial compared topical 5% garlic extract with 20% podophyllin in 74 women with genital warts, applied weekly for four weeks. Wart size and count decreased in both groups, with no statistically significant between-group difference in change over time (interaction p=0.329 for size and p=0.583 for count). Complete response occurred in 18 (51.4%) participants receiving garlic and 19 (51.4%) receiving podophyllin. The authors reported similar response rates, but the short follow-up did not allow assessment of durability or recurrence.
Key findings
- Complete response was observed in 18 (51.4%) garlic-treated and 19 (51.4%) podophyllin-treated participants.
- Complete or partial response occurred in 23 (65.7%) with garlic extract and 25 (67.6%) with podophyllin.
- Group-by-time interaction p values were 0.329 for wart size and 0.583 for wart count.
- Itching and burning each occurred in 8 (21.6%) garlic-treated participants.
Why it matters
The trial provides comparative evidence that topical garlic extract was associated with short-term wart responses similar to those observed with podophyllin in this study population. These findings may inform consideration of treatment options, while the limited follow-up means they do not establish whether responses persist or warts recur.
What to keep in mind
Follow-up was four weeks, precluding assessment of response durability and recurrence.