This medicine is used for the following purposes:
- genital warts
- skin disease
- skin disorder
- cancer
Brand Name(s): Aldara
Generic Name: Imiquimod
Instructions
DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.
Wash the area and allow the skin to dry completely (10-15 minutes) before using this medicine.
Apply a thin layer of medicine on the wart and rub it in. Wash the area with soap and water 8 hours later.
If you are using the single-dose packets, throw away any medicine left in the open packets after you have used it. Do not save to use later.
Do not cover the area after applying the medicine.
Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.
This medicine should only be used on the skin.
Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.
Avoid getting this medicine inside the vagina.
Do not use this medicine inside the rectum.
Gently rub the medicine into area until evenly spread.
Avoid prolonged or excessive sunlight exposure. Use sunscreen lotion with SPF 15 or higher.
Try not to get the medicine on normal-looking skin.
Do not use on cuts, scrapes, open wounds, sunburned skin, or skin with eczema (rash).
Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.
Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth after handling the medicine.
If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with warm water.
After applying medicine, try to keep the area dry.
Do not shower, bathe, or swim for at least 8 hours after applying the medicine.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.
Do not freeze the medicine.
Do not take the medicine more than once during 24 hours.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Do not use the medication any more than instructed.
It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- burning or stinging
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- itching
- mouth sores or irritation
- stuffy nose
- red, burning, or itchy skin
- change in skin color
- crusting or scabbing skin
- flaking or peeling skin
- skin irritation where medicine is applied
- fluid leaking from skin
- thickening or hardening of skin
- increased risk of sunburn
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- chest pain
- swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat
- flu-like symptoms
- blistering or peeling of the skin
- skin sores
- unusual changes or growths on skin
- swollen glands
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
There is a more complete description of this medicine available in English. Scan this code on your smartphone or tablet or use the web address below. You can also ask your pharmacist for a printout. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.
The display and use of this drug information is subject to Terms of Use.
More information about IMIQUIMOD - TOPICAL
Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from data included with permission and copyright by First DataBank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
