Medications for actinic keratosis are used to treat precancerous skin lesions and basal cell carcinoma. These medications also have other uses, such as treating certain viral skin infections. They work by either killing abnormal skin cells or boosting your immune system to fight off the abnormal cells. Common classes include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimetabolites, and immune response modifiers. NSAIDs like diclofenac (Solaraze) are usually applied as topical gels. Antimetabolites, such as fluorouracil (Efudex, Carac, Tolak), come in topical cream forms. Immune response modifiers, like imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara), are also available as topical creams. These treatments offer various ways to help manage and treat your skin condition effectively.
