Aldara

Imiquimod is the generic name of Aldara, a prescription drug used in the treatment of a certain pre-cancerous skin condition called actinic keratosis or AK, as well as a cancerous skin disease known as superficial basal cell carcinoma or SBCC. Imiquimod is sometimes prescribed for the treatment of condyloma or external anal and genital warts.

Aldara is a 5% immune response modifier cream that contains imiquimod at 50mg in a cream base comprised of cetyl alcohol, isostearic acid, polysorbate 60, benzyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, sorbitan monostearate, propylparaben, white petrolatum, glycerin, methylparaben, xanthan gum, and purified water.

Aldara Cream, a topical prescription medication, is used mainly for the treatment of actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma in adults whose immune systems are normal. This “for skin-use only” medicine treats SBCC when surgery is not the most appropriate method of getting rid of the carcinoma. Its use for the treatment of anal and genital warts is only applicable to patients who are at least 12 years old.

Aldara comes with a leaflet bearing patient information. Patients are highly advised to read everything thoroughly before using the medication. Follow instructions on the leaflet or the recommendations of the doctor. Patients who have sunburn should postpone the use of Aldara until after the sunburn has completely healed. Those who have had previous surgical procedures done on them should allow a complete healing process to take place before using the medication.

Aldara is normally applied on the skin just before bedtime during the prescribed days. Make sure your hands are clean, and wash the treated area with water and mild soap before applying the cream. A thin layer, or just enough to cover the area, should be applied. Leave the medication on the skin according to the duration prescribed. The amount of time typically depends on the type of condition being treated. However, the medication should not be left on the skin longer than instructed. When the appropriate time has been satisfied, the area under treatment should be washed with water and mild soap. The area should not be wrapped in bandages or any other type of dressings.

Patients who are planning to use Aldara should discuss all health-related issues with their doctors, such as food and medicine allergies, medical history, previous surgical or drug treatment particularly on the anal or genital, skin problems. Nursing mothers, pregnant women, and those who are planning on getting pregnant should inform their doctors about their conditions before using the medication.

Aldara increases one’s sensitivity to the sun. Thus, those who are under this medication should avoid longer periods of sun exposure, sunlamps, or tanning booths. Those who are prone to sun exposure should wear clothing that protect, and should make use of sunscreen. Persons who are being treated for anal or genital warts are advised against engaging in sexual activities while the medication is applied.

Most Aldara side effects are mild, such as flaking, redness, itching, peeling, changes in skin color, swelling, and scabbing. If these symptoms persist or worsen however, consult your doctor right away.

Certain severe reaction on the skin, like blisters or sores, may be observed. The area should be washed with water and mild soap, and the doctor should be informed immediately. If you experience a more severe effect of Aldara, such as fever or those which restrict you from doing daily tasks, seek medical attention at once.

Aldara may be used as a “for skin-only” medication. However, it is formulated to be powerful enough to address some of the most fatal diseases. And because it is powerful, it should be used as prescribed. Otherwise, patients will be faced with worse health problems.