Generic Name: imiquimod topical (ih
MIH qwih mod)
Typical Brand Names: Aldara
What Is It Used For?
Aldara is used in the treatment of external genital and perianal
warts, actinic keratosis (warty overgrowths of skin) on the face
and scalp and for treating superficial basal cell carcinoma. Aldara
does not fight the viruses that cause warts directly. It does
help to relieve and control wart production. It is not known how
imiquimod helps actinic keratoses or skin cancer. It is also used
for many other purposes other than those listed in medication
guides.
How Is It Used?
Aldara should be applied before bed, and left on the skin for
approximately 8 hours for the treatment of actinic keratosis and
6 to 10 hours for the treatment of genital or perianal warts.
After the prescribed amount of time passes, the cream should be
removed by washing the area with mild soap and water. Avoid sexual
contact including genital, anal, or oral sex when the cream is
on the genital or perianal skin. Imiquimod topical may weaken
condoms and vaginal diaphragms. This means they may not work as
well to prevent pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider about
the use of effective birth control and about safer sex methods.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Serious side effects from Aldara are unlikely to occur; however
a serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of
the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) might
occur. If these effects persist or worsen or you notice some other
effects, notify your doctor immediately.
Less serious side effects like: diarrhea, headache, tiredness,
swelling, blisters, and nausea are more likely to occur. Talk
to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that
is especially bothersome.
Is It Safe?
Aldara is not a cure for genital or perianal warts. New warts
may develop during treatment with imiquimod topical. It is not
known whether imiquimod topical can stop the spread of genital
or perianal warts to other people. Avoid sexual contact including
genital, anal, or oral sex when the cream is on the genital or
perianal skin. Imiquimod topical may weaken condoms and vaginal
diaphragms. This means they may not work as well to prevent pregnancy.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of effective birth
control and about safer sex methods.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Aldara is unlikely to interact with medications taken orally during
treatment. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all other medicines
you are using, especially other topical preparations, and talk
to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or
over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and
herbal products.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you have missed any dose, use it as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip
the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a
double dose of this medication.
How Should It Be Stored?
Always store imiquimod (Aldara) at room temperature (away from
moisture and heat).
Anything Else I Should Know?
Use prudence before using Aldara in cases like: allergies, pregnancy,
breast feeding, children or cases like older adults.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
