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Imiquimod (i-MI-kwi-mod) is used to treat external warts around the genital and rectal areas called condyloma acuminatum. It is not used on warts inside the vagina, penis, or rectum. Imiquimod is also used to treat a skin condition of the face and scalp called actinic keratoses. Imiquimod can also be used to treat certain types of skin cancer called superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC). It works by aiding the immune system to help protect the body from viruses that cause warts. The medicine 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. Imiquimod is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Topical Cream (U.S. and Canada)
Imiquimod is used topically to treat warts on the skin of the genital and anal areas. Imiquimod does not cure warts, and new warts may appear during treatment. Imiquimod is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Imiquimod comes as a topical cream in unit-of-use packages. It is important to wash your hands before and after applying Imiquimod to your skin. One packet of Imiquimod is used to apply a thin layer of cream to the wart area three times per week, just before going to sleep. A schedule of Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday is suggested. Rub the cream into the skin until no more cream is visible. Do not put any covering on the area. Imiquimod should be left on the skin for 6 to 10 hours. Upon waking, wash the area with mild soap and water to remove excess cream. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use Imiquimod exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Brand names: - Aldara - Imiquimod |