Latest Treatment

Within recent years, research on the orally taken drug cimetidine (more commonly known as Tagamet-a medication for stomach ulcers) has shown some promise in the treatment of warts. Cimetidine is an H2 receptor blocker used primarily to decrease histamine stimulation of gastric acid secretion in the gut-this is far from foot indeed. So why does it work on warts? Cimetidine also inhibits the H2 receptors found on specific cells thought to be a factor in limiting the immune response that would destroy the virus [8, 9, 10]. The function of these cells, known as suppressor T cells, is prevented by cimetidine thereby allowing the body to rid itself of the virus.

Studies have indicated that cimetidine works best in patients under the age of 17-showing a complete resolution of the lesions in 80% of patients after two to four months of therapy [10]. The success rate among patients over the age of 17 is considerably less at about 30%. The dosage of cimetidine required for the treatment of plantar warts is different than its over-the-counter counterpart Tagamet, and is often specifically calculated by your physician based on patient age and body weight. As with most other oral medications, cimetidine has some side effects and drug interactions that your doctor will discuss before writing a prescription. Some common side effects include headache, diarrhea, dizziness, and nausea. Your doctor can help you determine if cimetidine may work for you.