Drug reference
Camellia sinensis is an extract from green tea leaves. The exact mechanism of action is not known; non-clinical studies have shown inhibition of the growth of activated keratinocytes, and anti-oxidative effects at the site of application.
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Warts (external genital and perianal) in immunocompetent patients ▶TO THE LESION ▶Adult: Apply up to 250 mg 3 times a day until complete clearance of warts (maximum 16 weeks), do not exceed treatment period even if new warts develop; maximum 750 mg per day DOSE EQUIVALENCE AND CONVERSION ▶250 mg is equivalent to 0.5 cm of ointment.
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Avoid broken skin. avoid contact with eyes. avoid contact with lips. avoid contact with mouth. avoid contact with nostrils. avoid inflamed skin. uncircumcised males (risk of phimosis). vulvar region
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Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) decisions The Scottish Medicines Consortium has advised (April 2016) that camellia sinensis (green tea) leaf extract (Catephen ®) is accepted for restricted use within NHS Scotland for the treatment of external genital and perianal warts in patients not suitable for podophyllotoxin or who have not responded to treatment with podophyllotoxin. All Wales Medicines Strategy Group (AWMSG) decisions The All Wales Medicines Strategy Group has advised (October 2016) that green tea leaf extract (camellia sinensis), (Catephen ®), is recommended for restricted use within NHS Wales for the treatment of external genital and perianal warts in patients not suitable for podophyllotoxin or who have not responded to treatment with podophyllotoxin.
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▶Uncommon Balanoposthitis. increased risk of infection. lymphatic abnormalities. necrosis. painful sexual intercourse. phimosis. skin reactions. urinary disorders ▶Frequency not known Urinary tract stenosis. vaginal discharge
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Manufacturer advises Catephen ® may weaken condoms and vaginal diaphragms—alternative methods of contraception should be considered.
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Manufacturer advises avoid—toxicity in animal studies.
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Manufacturer advises risk to infant cannot be excluded—no information available.
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Manufacturer advises avoid in severe impairment (limited information available).
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Manufacturer advises apply to each wart, ensuring a thin layer is left on the wart. It is not necessary to wash off the ointment from the area before next application.
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There can be variation in the licensing of different medicines containing the same drug. Ointment ▶Catephen (KoRa Healthcare) Camellia sinensis extract 100 mg per 1 gram Catephen 10% ointment | 15 gram P £39.00 DT = £39.00
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Manufacturer advises the ointment should be washed off before sexual activity. Manufacturer advises female patients using tampons should insert tampon before applying the ointment.
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Apply up to 250 mg 3 times a day until complete
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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