Your Patients Can't Find Podofilox — Here's How You Can Help

You've prescribed Podofilox (Condylox) for a patient with external genital warts, and now they're calling back: "My pharmacy doesn't have it." It's a scenario that's become all too common in 2026, and it puts providers in a difficult position.

This guide gives you a practical, step-by-step approach to helping your patients access Podofilox — or an appropriate alternative — with minimal disruption to your workflow.

Current Availability: What You Need to Know

Podofilox 0.5% (both the topical solution and gel formulations) has experienced intermittent supply disruptions. Key facts for your practice:

• Only a small number of manufacturers produce generic Podofilox
• Chain pharmacies frequently don't stock it routinely — it's often a special-order item
• Availability varies significantly by region and week
• Both formulations (solution and gel) are affected, though not always equally
• Brand-name Condylox has similar availability issues

Why Patients Can't Find It

Understanding the barriers helps you guide patients more effectively:

Low Pharmacy Stocking Rates

Because Podofilox is a niche dermatological product, many pharmacies — especially large chains — don't maintain regular inventory. Patients often learn it's unavailable only after arriving at the pharmacy.

Wholesaler Limitations

Even when a pharmacy tries to order Podofilox, their primary wholesaler may be out of stock. Pharmacies that rely on a single wholesaler have no fallback option.

Patient Knowledge Gap

Many patients don't know that they can check stock before visiting a pharmacy, that independent pharmacies may be a better option, or that their prescription can be transferred to another location. This is where your guidance makes a real difference.

What Providers Can Do: 5 Steps

Step 1: Set Expectations at the Point of Prescribing

The most impactful thing you can do is proactively tell patients that Podofilox may be difficult to find. This simple step prevents frustration and prepares them to take action rather than feeling helpless.

Consider saying something like: "Podofilox has had some supply issues lately. If your pharmacy doesn't have it in stock, here's what you can do..."

Step 2: Direct Patients to Real-Time Availability Tools

Recommend that patients use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near them currently have Podofilox in stock. This is faster and more reliable than calling pharmacies one by one.

You can even integrate this into your after-visit instructions: "Check Medfinder.com to find a pharmacy with Podofilox in stock before you go."

Step 3: Prescribe Flexibly

If clinically appropriate, consider the following approaches:

• Accept either formulation: Note on the prescription that either the solution or gel formulation is acceptable. This doubles the chance of a successful fill.
• Send to multiple pharmacies: Some EHR systems allow you to send prescriptions to a preferred pharmacy with a backup. If your system supports this, use it.
• Include independent pharmacies: If you know of independent or specialty pharmacies in your area that tend to have better stock, suggest these to patients directly.

Step 4: Have a Backup Plan Ready

Before the patient leaves your office, discuss what to do if they can't find Podofilox within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., one week):

• Offer to send a prescription for an alternative if they call back
• Schedule a follow-up or telehealth check-in
• Provide clear instructions on who to contact in your office for a prescription change

Step 5: Know Your Alternatives

Be prepared to pivot quickly. The most common alternatives for external genital warts include:

• Imiquimod 5% cream (Aldara) or 3.75% (Zyclara): Patient-applied immune modifier. Widely available. Generic Imiquimod costs $30-$150 with discount cards.
• Sinecatechins 15% ointment (Veregen): Patient-applied botanical. Approved for genital and perianal warts. Less widely stocked but may be orderable.
• Cryotherapy: In-office treatment. No pharmacy needed. Good option when topicals are unavailable.
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): In-office treatment. Safe in pregnancy. Cost-effective.

For a detailed comparison, see our provider shortage briefing.

Workflow Tips for Your Practice

Integrating these strategies into your workflow doesn't have to be burdensome. Here are some practical tips:

Create a Standard Handout

Develop a one-page patient handout that includes:

• What Podofilox is and how to use it (link to our patient education page)
• How to check pharmacy stock using Medfinder
• Alternative pharmacies to try (independent, compounding, mail-order)
• When to call your office for a prescription change

Use Template Notes

Create an EHR template or smart phrase for genital wart treatment that includes availability guidance. This saves time and ensures consistent patient communication.

Designate a Point Person

If you're in a multi-provider practice, designate a staff member (medical assistant, nurse) who can handle "I can't find my medication" calls efficiently. They should know:

• How to check Medfinder for current availability
• Which alternative prescriptions the provider has pre-approved
• How to facilitate a prescription change quickly

Track What Works

Keep a simple log of which pharmacies successfully fill Podofilox prescriptions. Over time, this gives you reliable referral options for future patients.

Final Thoughts

The Podofilox supply situation is beyond any individual provider's control, but the patient experience is not. By setting expectations early, directing patients to the right tools, prescribing flexibly, and having alternatives ready, you can ensure your patients get treated promptly — even when their first-choice medication is in short supply.

For real-time Podofilox availability data and provider tools, visit Medfinder for Providers. For patient resources, share our guides on finding Podofilox in stock and saving money on Podofilox.