Acetocaustin Wart & Verruca Treatment — Monochloroacetic Acid 50%
Acetocaustin is a simple and effective solution for treating and removing warts and verrucas at home. It contains monochloroacetic acid (MCA) 50% — a strong organic acid that acts directly on wart tissue, breaking it down safely and effectively from the first application. MCA is one of the most effective over-the-counter wart treatments available.
How It Works
Monochloroacetic acid (MCA) is a corrosive acid-based solution that works in a similar way to salicylic acid and TCA, but is the strongest of the three. It has a direct degrading action on the hardened skin of warts and verrucas, penetrating the tissue and breaking it down from the first use. The easy-to-use applicator allows precise, controlled application directly to the wart, minimising contact with surrounding healthy skin.
Key Benefits
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Highly effective MCA 50% — one of the strongest over-the-counter wart treatments available.
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Starts working instantly — can be used straight out of the packaging.
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Precise applicator — easy, controlled application directly to the wart or verruca.
- Suitable for children aged 4 and older.
- Treats warts and verrucas on hands and feet.
Active Ingredient
Monochloroacetic Acid (MCA) 50%
How to Use
- Soak the wart or verruca in warm water for 5 minutes to soften the skin.
- Dry thoroughly.
- Using the applicator, apply a small amount of Acetocaustin directly to the wart or verruca only — avoid contact with surrounding healthy skin.
- Allow to dry and cover with a plaster if desired.
- Repeat every 2–3 days as needed until the wart or verruca is gone.
Always read the full product leaflet before use.
Who Should Not Use This Product?
- Children under 4 years of age.
- People with diabetes or circulatory problems — consult your doctor or pharmacist first.
- Do not apply to the face, neck, armpits, or genitals.
- Do not apply to moles, birthmarks, or skin tags.
- Do not use on irritated, broken, or inflamed skin.
- If you are unsure whether the growth is a wart or verruca, consult your pharmacist or GP before use.
Possible Side Effects
MCA is a strong acid and may cause a mild burning or stinging sensation on application — this is normal. Avoid contact with healthy skin. If significant irritation, redness, or pain occurs, wash the area thoroughly with water and seek medical advice. Seek emergency attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Pharmacist’s Note
“Acetocaustin is one of the treatments I reach for when patients have tried salicylic acid-based products without success. MCA at 50% is significantly stronger and tends to work faster, but that also means it needs to be applied carefully — precisely to the wart only, and not to the surrounding skin. If you’re not sure whether what you have is a wart or verruca, or if it’s in an awkward location, it’s always worth a quick chat with us before you start treatment.”
— Anne Harty, Ballyduff Pharmacy
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.