Seven RCTs (n=756) were included in the review. There were 5 RCTs (n=666) of imiquimod and 2 RCTs (n=90) of podophyllotoxin.
Imiquimod.
Based on the results from 4 studies on HIV-free patients, 15 (5%) of the 282 patients had their initial warts completely cleared at the end of treatment with placebo. With imiquimod, 146 (51%) of the 244 patients had their warts completely cleared. The NNT with imiquimod for 6 to 16 weeks was 2.2 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.9, 2.5). Local cutaneous adverse events were common, notably erythema and skin irritation, with some burning and pain.
Podophyllotoxin.
At the end of treatment with placebo, only 4 (10%) of the 40 patients had their initial warts completely cleared. With podophyllotoxin, 37 (74%) of the 50 patients had their warts completely cleared. The NNT with podophyllotoxin for 4 weeks was 1.6 (95% CI: 1.3, 2.1). Some local tenderness and burning was reported.