Brand Name: Aldara
Generic Name: Imiquimod 5mg

Aldara [Imiquimod 5mg] Description

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier. It is believed to bind and activate the immune cells in the skin, which makes them release "cytokines" or defense chemicals that fight off replication of viral particles and prevents further advancement of such cells.

Uses of Aldara cream

It is popularly used to treat various skin conditions such as Acitinic Keratosis [AK], genital warts [GW], perianal warts [PW] and superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma [sBCC]. It is only meant for applying to the skin. Aldara cream can be used in children above 12 for treating GW and PW, but in the other two conditions it is recommended for use only in adults who have a healthy immune system.

Usage of Imiquimod 5mg Aldara cream makes it possible to detect hitherto hidden lesions as in AK and sBCC. In AK, fair complexioned people generally, or those who have over-exposure to strong lights may develop reddish-brown, yellowish-black, skin-colored, flat/dry/itchy patches on the skin. If not treated, these can develop into sBCC, when the lesions maybe new, or may present themselves with a change in the older growth, or as an open/bleeding sore. GW and PW develop in the genital and anus areas in men and women in clusters or singly, as bumps or growths that are usually painless, and vary in size, at times blending with the skin. Certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus [HPV] are believed to be responsible for GW; if one partner is infected, the infection will be transmitted to the other one.

How to Use Aldara cream

The application depends on the skin condition, but it is usually once-a-day for 2-5 days in a week, with the treatment extending for 6-16 weeks. Follow the instructions given by your doctor/dermatologist exactly.

Wash your hands with soap and water before and after making the application. The infected area should be washed with a mild soap and water, and allowed to dry before the cream is applied. Gently rub a thin layer into the infected area, avoiding the eyes, nostrils, lips, and any open wounds. The treated area should not be bandaged or covered with closed dressing; while only use of cotton gauze/undergarments is permitted for those who use it to treat GW or PW.

The best time to apply the cream would be night, so that it can work on the skin while you sleep for 6-8 hours. In the morning, the treated area should be washed with a mild soap and water again.

Missed Application of Aldara cream

Since it's only a one-time application, you are not likely to miss it. If you do miss to apply the cream, check with your doctor, as the application schedule differs for each skin condition.

Side-effects of Aldara cream

Some of the common, less serious side effects may include:-

• Reddening or flaking of the skin
• Crusting
• Change in skin color.

An allergic reaction can include: rash, burning sensation, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty in breathing, for which you should contact your doctor for help at once.

Over-application of Aldara

If any symptom bothers you, or you think you have applied the cream in excess, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

Interactions of Aldara

Some of the medicines with which Imiquimod interacts, are:-

• Medicines for autoimmune disorders
• Antihypertensive medications.

Storage of Aldara

When you buy Aldara cream, store it at a room temperature much below 25 C, away from heat, light and dampness and out of reach of children and pets. Freezing is not required. Frozen packets as well as partly used packets must be properly discarded.



Precautions of Aldara

• Pregnant or lactating women must consult their doctor before using this cream so should women who are planning to have a baby.
• It is recommended that mating should be refrained from in an individual who has GW, because as long as the cream remains on the skin, it can weaken condoms or diaphragms.
• Aldara can make people more sensitive to sunlight or strong lights, so those who use it for AK or sBCC, should avoid exposure to the sun or strong lights, and use protective clothing, to derive benefit of this cream.
• It is recommended that you do not attempt to treat yourself by taking, increasing, decreasing, or stopping the medicine on your own.
• Never share your medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms it can do more harm than good to that person.



Notes of Aldara

Read the Patient Information carefully each time you purchase a refill - it may contain new information. Your doctor/pharmacist will be able to tell you more about the uses, precautions, side effects, and interactions linked to this medicine. Discard any unused medicine after your treatment is over.