imiquimod - topical, Aldara
GENERIC NAME: IMIQUIMOD - TOPICAL (im-I-kwi-mod)
BRAND NAME(S): Aldara
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat certain types of growths on the skin. These are precancerous growths (actinic keratoses), a certain type of skin cancer (superficial basal cell carcinoma), and warts on the outside of the genitals/anus. Treating these conditions can decrease complications from them. Imiquimod belongs to a group of drugs called immune response modifiers. It is believed to work by helping to activate your immune system to fight these abnormal skin growths.This product is not recommended for use on children under 12 years of age unless specifically directed by your doctor.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using imiquimod and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Use this medication on the skin only. Apply this medication to the affected area once a day as directed by your doctor. The number of times and the length of time you apply this medication depend on the specific skin problem that is being treated. When treating actinic keratoses, apply twice a week for a full 16 weeks. When treating superficial basal cell carcinoma, apply 5 times a week for a full 6 weeks. When treating warts, apply 3 times a week for up to 16 weeks. If you have any questions about which days to apply this medication or how often or how long to use this medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.Do not apply this medication into the eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina. If you get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. If irritation occurs, contact your doctor immediately.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use a calendar to mark the days you will be applying the medication each week. Before applying the medication, wash the area to be treated with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. Use a new packet of cream for each use. Apply as directed by your doctor just before going to bed. Wash your hands with soap and water after each application. Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other waterproof coverings. Covering the area with cotton gauze, or cotton underwear if treating the genital area, is permitted. Leave the cream on overnight, usually for about 8 hours if treating actinic keratoses or basal cell carcinoma, or 6-10 hours for warts or as directed. In the morning, wash the treated area with soap and water to remove the cream. Do not bathe or wet the treated area before the prescribed application time has passed. Do not leave imiquimod cream on longer than prescribed by your doctor. Throw away any partly used packets of medication.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens or if new growths appear during treatment.
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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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