Imiquimod cream (Aldara)

Imiquimod cream is a topical cream used to treat genital warts caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

The cream is applied directly to the affected areas of the skin. Treatment usually takes several weeks, and the warts improve gradually over time.

In the United States, Imiquimod is approved by the FDA. The cream is available as a generic and also under the brand name Aldara.

At SpeedyHealth, our physicians can prescribe Imiquimod cream to treat genital warts. They will ensure that the treatment plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.

Imiquimod cream treats genital warts effectively. Here’s what happens when you apply the medication:

• It activates the immune system.
• The immune cells target and eliminate the virus causing the warts.

This cream offers several benefits for treating genital warts:

• It comes as an easy-to-apply topical cream.
• Patients can apply the cream from the privacy of their own home, without frequent visits to their doctor
• Less likely to cause permanent scarring when compared to other treatment options.
• It is non-invasive compared to other treatment options such as surgical removal, laser treatments, or cryotherapy
• It is well tolerated by patients

Imiquimod cream is highly effective when it comes to treating genital warts.

A study with 311 participants shows that 50% of participants who applied the 5% Imiquimod (Aldara ointment) three times a week for up to 16 weeks noticed that the warts disappeared.

The same study observed that 21% of participants who applied the 1% Imiquimod (Aldara) cream three times a week for up to 16 weeks noticed that the warts disappeared.

In contrast, only 11% of participants who used the vehicle cream (placebo) for the same duration witnessed that their warts vanished.

Efficacy of imiquimod cream for genital warts

It usually takes the Imiquimod (Aldara) about 8-10 weeks to show some visible improvement in genital warts.

However, the time frame the cream takes to work is highly subjective.

For some patients, the cream may take as little as four weeks to show significant improvement. In other cases, actual progress might even take up to 16 weeks.

To use this cream effectively, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water, then dry with a towel.
• Cut open the cream sachet and squeeze out a thin layer of Imiquimod cream on your fingertip.
• Apply the cream onto the warts and rub in gently until the cream disappears.
• Discard the used cream sachet and wash your hands with mild soap and water.
• Leave the cream on the affected areas for at least 6-10 hours, avoid washing these areas during this period of time.
• Once 6-10 hours have passed, take a bath and rinse off the cream well.

How to apply Imiquimod cream

Step 1: Prepare your skin

Before bedtime, wash your hands with mild soap and water and dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Open the cream sachet

Cut open the cream sachet and squeeze out some cream.

Step 3: Apply the cream

Apply a thin layer of cream on the affected areas. Rub gently until the cream is absorbed into the skin.

Step 4: Clean up after use

Discard the opened, used sachet. Wash your hands with mild soap and water and dry.

Step 5: Leave the cream on overnight

Leave the cream on for 6-10 hours overnight. Do not bathe, shower, or wash the affected area during this time.

Step 6: Wash off the cream

After 6-10 hours, wash off the area where the cream was applied with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly.

Remember:

• Men with warts under the foreskin must pull back their foreskin every day and wash well underneath.
• Do not use the cream for more than 16 weeks at a time.
• One sachet of the cream covers 20 cm² of skin area.

When to apply Imiquimod cream?

To treat genital warts, you must apply the cream directly to the warts three times a week. It is recommended to apply the cream on alternate days, for example, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to apply Imiquimod, apply the missed dose of cream as soon as you remember and then continue on your regular schedule.

Avoid applying extra cream to make up for the missed dose as this could lead to unwanted side effects.

Do not apply Imiquimod cream internally or apply more than the recommended dosage. Once you apply a layer of cream on the affected area, avoid covering it with bandages or any other dressing. If your skin feels uncomfortable, wash off the cream with mild soap and water immediately.

Dr. Adrian Rawlinson Supervising Physician

You will have to use Imiquimod cream (Aldara) for up to 16 weeks, depending on how severe your genital warts are and how they respond to the treatment.

At SpeedyHealth, we will prescribe Imiquimod cream depending on the two factors mentioned above.

To ensure you get the full benefits of this cream, consider making these lifestyle changes:

• Avoid sexual activity after applying the cream, as it can weaken condoms or diaphragms.
• Clean the affected area regularly to ensure that the warts do not return.
• Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and quit smoking to boost your immune system
• Limit exposure to sunlight because the skin is more vulnerable to it. Wear protective clothing, like a hat. If you already have sunburn, avoid using Aldara.

In some patients, Imiquimod cream may cause low blood count. A low blood count may make you more vulnerable to infections, bruise your skin more easily, and cause increased fatigue. Inform us if you notice any of these symptoms.

Dr. Adrian Rawlinson Supervising Physician

Store Imiquimod (Aldara) at or below 77℉. Keep the cream out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Disposal

Do not use the cream past its expiry date or reuse opened sachets. Take the used sachets to your pharmacy and ask the pharmacist to dispose of them safely.

Test While Imiquimod cream can be used by adults with genital warts, the cream itself might not be suitable for everyone.

Who can use it?

Imiquimod cream is typically prescribed for adults who suffer from genital warts.

Who cannot use it?

This cream may not be suitable for you if you:

• Are allergic to Imiquimod or any other ingredients in this cream.
• Suffer from autoimmune disorders.
• Have had an organ transplant.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Have skin that is not completely healed from a previous medicine or surgical procedure.

Like all medications, Imiquimod cream for warts (Aldara) may cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some may require medical attention.

Very common side effects

• Redness
• Skin peeling
• Flakiness and swelling of the skin
• Small open sores
• Formation of crusts or tiny bubbles during healing
• Itching
• Burning
• Hardened skin
• Changes in skin color

These side effects are mild, and your skin will return to normal within two weeks after the treatment ends.

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Uncommon side effects:
• Fever and/or flu-like symptoms
• Difficulty getting an erection
• Pain during intercourse for women
• Increased sweating
• Upset stomach
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Depression
• Appetite loss
• Cough and cold

Rare side effects:

• Inflammation, swelling, and irritability at the application site
• Dry mouth
• Feeling sick

Please seek immediate medical attention if the side effects persist or worsen.

This is not a full list of side effects. For more information, consult the Patient Information Leaflet.

There are no known medicines that are incompatible with Imiquimod cream (Aldara).

However, to be on the safer side, inform your healthcare provider about any medicines that you are currently taking.

While taking Imiquimod cream (Aldara), consider the following safety advice.

Podofilox gel is an alternative to Imiquimod cream. Before making a decision, take a look at the comparison table below to find the option that best suits you:

Imiquimod cream has a higher success rate for treating genital warts and is easier to apply than Podofilox gel.

No, Imiquimod cream (Aldara) is a prescription-only medicine. This means you cannot get it over the counter. You will need a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase Imiquimod cream.

To get a prescription for this medication, simply complete our quick, free online consultation form. If our doctor determines that Imiquimod cream is suitable for you, you'll be approved for a prescription.

Yes, you can buy Imiquimod cream for warts online at SpeedyHealth. All you have to do is follow these four simple steps:

• Fill out our online consultation form. It should only take 5-10 minutes.
• Our doctor will review the form and determine if the cream is best for you.
• If they approve, the doctor will issue an e-prescription for the cream.
• Our licensed pharmacy will dispatch the cream in discreet packaging to your doorstep with free delivery.

At SpeedyHealth, we provide fast and convenient healthcare without the hassle of waiting in line for a prescription. Your medications are just a few clicks away.

You can trust that there are no hidden fees or costs when you order from us.

Best of all, we offer free and discreet delivery right to your doorstep. Your order is completely confidential, and you won’t have to pay for shipping.