What is Veregen?
Veregen® is an herbal ointment containing sinecatechins (10%), a standardized extract from green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis). It is used to treat external genital and perianal warts (condylomas) in adults.
The ointment contains a mixture of catechins, with epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) as the main active ingredient. Veregen® offers an herbal alternative to imiquimod and podophyllotoxin.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Catechine aus Grüntee (Sinecatechine 10 %)
Mechanism of action: The exact mechanism is not fully understood. Catechins act via several pathways:
- Antiproliferative: Inhibition of cell division in wart cells
- Antioxidant: Reduction of oxidative stress
- Antiviral: Inhibition of HPV replication
- Immunomodulatory: Stimulation of the local immune response
- Pro-apoptotic: Promotion of programmed cell death in infected cells
Clinical data:
- Clearance rate: approx. 54–65% after 16 weeks
- Warts visible again within 3 months after complete healing: 6.5% (with placebo: 5.8%)
Who is it suitable for?
Veregen® is suitable for:
- Adults with external genital and perianal warts
- Patients who prefer an herbal treatment
- Immunocompetent patients
Advantages:
- Herbal active ingredient
- Three-times-daily application (active treatment)
Not suitable:
- Internal warts
- Immunosuppressed patients
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient data)
Available Dosages
Dosage:
- Apply a strand of ointment approx. 0.5 cm long three times daily
- Apply to each individual wart
- Maximum treatment duration: 16 weeks
- Maximum amount per application: 250 mg of ointment for all warts together (no more than 750 mg per day)
Treatment duration:
- On average 10–16 weeks
- Continue treatment until the warts have completely healed
- Do not use for longer than 16 weeks
Dosage form and pack sizes
The medicines catalogue lists one pack variant: one strength in one pack size.
- Dosage form
- Salbe
- Strengths
- 10%
- Pack sizes
- 15 g
| Strength | Pack | PZN | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | 15 g | 16320304 | 0 days |
Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.
The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.
Duration is the catalogue value for the usual dosage. How long a pack actually lasts depends on the dose your doctor prescribes.
How to Take
Application: 1. Wash your hands 2. Apply a thin layer to each wart 3. Rub in gently 4. Do not wash off the ointment – leave it on to take effect 5. Wash your hands thoroughly
Important notes:
- Apply three times daily (morning, midday, evening)
- Not under an occlusive dressing
- Not on internal warts, mucous membranes or open wounds
- Avoid intimate contact immediately after application
- May weaken condoms and diaphragms
Contraindications
Veregen® must not be used in cases of:
- Hypersensitivity to sinecatechins or any of the other ingredients
- Internal genital warts
- Open wounds
Veregen® should not be used in:
- Immunosuppressed patients (not studied)
- Pregnancy (as a precaution)
Caution is advised in:
- Breastfeeding (data are insufficient)
- HIV-infected patients (efficacy may be reduced)
Possible Side Effects
Very common (> 10%):
- Local redness (erythema)
- Itching
- Burning
- Pain/discomfort at the application site
Common (1–10%):
- Erosion, ulceration
- Swelling, hardening
- Discharge (vaginal in women)
- Phimosis in uncircumcised men
General: The local reactions are mild to moderate and subside after the end of treatment. Systemic side effects are very rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Veregen® contains a standardized extract from green tea leaves. The catechins are plant-based polyphenols. It is the only approved herbal medicinal product for the treatment of genital warts.
In clinical studies, warts became visible again within 3 months in 6.5% of patients whose warts had completely healed (with placebo: 5.8%).
The catechins are metabolized locally and have a shorter duration of action than imiquimod. Applying it three times a day ensures a steady level of the active ingredient. This can be more time-consuming.
Similar Medications
Is Veregen right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.