imiquimod

It's important to use imiquimod exactly as prescribed. When you first start using this medication, your provider may show you how to apply it correctly in order to get the best effect.

Before applying imiquimod, wash the affected area(s) with soap and water, then let it dry completely for at least 10 minutes. Make sure to wash your hands beforehand too.

Apply imiquimod just before going to bed. Be sure to rub it in gently and completely, and leave it on the affected area(s) for about 8 hours (can be 6 to 10 hours if using Aldara for warts). Afterwards, remove the medication by washing with soap and water.

After applying imiquimod, wash your hands well to prevent it from getting on other parts of the body. Keep this medication away from your eyes, lips, and nostrils. If it gets in your eyes or anywhere that it doesn't belong, rinse well with water.

Do not place bandages or dressings over the areas where you have applied this medication, since this can lead to more side effects.

Skin redness, swelling, scabbing, crusting, and flakiness are typical side effects from using imiquimod. If the irritation is severe, wash the medication off with soap and water, and talk to your provider.

If you are getting Zyclara from a pump, you'll need to "prime" the pump the first time you use it. Push down a few times until cream starts to come out, like how you would start using a brand new bottle of lotion.

Since Aldara is not used every day, you may want to mark your calendar or set a reminder to remember to apply your dose as scheduled.

Imiquimod packets are for single-use only. If there is any cream left in an opened packet, throw it out and do not reuse it. Throw away the Zyclara pump after you have finished your treatment.

Imiquimod should only be used on the skin. Do not take it by mouth, or apply it on the eye or in the vagina.

Tips for treating actinic keratosis (scaly precancerous spot or growth on the skin): Only use imiquimod to treat one area at a time - for example, only on the face, or only on the scalp, but not both at the same time. Try to stay out of the sun or any artificial sunlight, and if necessary, wear sunscreen or use protective hats and face coverings. Some areas of disease will become more noticeable when you first start this medication, but should go away with time.

Tips for treating genital or anal warts: Avoid all types of sexual contact while you are using imiquimod to avoid giving other people side effects from the medication and also because this medication doesn't necessarily prevent spread of warts. Imiquimod can also make condoms and vaginal diaphragms work less effectively, so it's best not to use those types of protection until you are done with treatment. Imiquimod doesn't cure warts, so it's possible to get new warts while you are taking this medication. Do not put any of this medication inside the vagina or anus. If you are female, be extra careful about getting it on the most sensitive parts (unless those areas have warts) to avoid pain, swelling, and irritation. Let your provider know immediately if it affects your ability to urinate. If you are a male with genital warts near the tip of the penis and are not circumcised, remember to clean thoroughly under the foreskin every day.

Tips for treating basal cell carcinoma (skin cancer): Aldara should only be used on skin cancer that's located on your torso, neck, arms (not hands), or legs (not feet). Your provider will tell you the right amount to use, but make sure the medication covers 1 cm around all the edges of the tumor to be certain that you have treated it fully. Stay out of the sun or any artificial sunlight, and if necessary, wear sunscreen or use protective hats and clothing. Follow-up with your provider regularly to make sure the tumor is healing appopriately.