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Aldara Drug Center

Aldara (imiquimod) topical (for the skin) is used to treat actinic keratosis (a condition caused by too much sun exposure) on the face and scalp. It is also used to treat a minor form of skin cancer called superficial basal cell carcinoma, when surgery would not be an appropriate treatment. Aldara also treats genital warts that appear on the outside of the body, but is not a cure for genital warts. It is an immune response modifier. This medication is available in generic form. Common side effects include treatment area reactions such as redness, swelling, itching, burning, pain/tenderness, thickening/hardening of the skin, peeling/flaking/scabbing/crusting, or leaking a clear fluid. Changes in skin color may occur and may not go away.

Aldara Cream should be applied 2 times per week for a full 16 weeks to a defined treatment area on the face or scalp (but not both concurrently). Before applying the cream, the patient should wash hands and the treatment area with mild soap and water and allow the area to dry thoroughly. Avoid contact with eyes, lips and nostrils. It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied Aldara. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor all prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you use. During pregnancy, Aldara should be used only when prescribed. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

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