podophyllotoxin /pō′dōfil′ətok″sin/ [Gk, pous + phyllon, leaf, toxikon, poison] , any one of a group of substances derived from the roots of Podophyllum peltatum, a common plant species known as mayapple or American mandrake. Podofilox, a derivative, is prescribed in the topical treatment of condyloma acuminatum and other types of warts. Several podophyllotoxin derivatives have been used as purgatives and studied for their antineoplastic effects, including the inhibition of mitosis. Podophyllotoxins are not recommended for use in early pregnancy.
