Drugs
Aldara
Generic Name: Imiquimod
Product Name: Aldara
- Indication of Aldara
- Action of Aldara
- Dose Advice of Aldara
- Schedule of Aldara
- Common side effects of Aldara
- Uncommon side effects of Aldara
- Reference
Indication of Aldara:
Aldara is used to treat the following conditions:- Basal cell carcinoma of the skin
- Treatment of external perianal and genital warts
- Actinic keratoses
Action of Aldara:
Aldara contains an active ingredient called imiquimod which is an immune response modifier. Imiquimod works by stimulating immune cells, which then attack and kill virus infected cells or cancer cells.Dose Advice of Aldara:
Aldara is only available via prescription from a doctor.
Different regimens are used depending on the condition being treated. The following dosages may differ from what your doctor advises:
- Treatment of external perianal and genital warts:
- Aldara is applied once a day 3 times a week (eg. Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
- Treatment is continued for a maximum of 16 weeks, until wart has completely disappeared or until your doctor tells you to stop
- Treatment of basal cell carcinoma:
- Aldara is applied for 5 consecutive days each week
- Treatment should continue for 6 weeks or until the doctor tells you to stop
- Treatment of actinic keratoses on the scalp and face:
- Aldara is applied once a day 3 times a week (eg. Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) to the area
- Treatment should be up to a maximum of 16 weeks or until the doctor tells you to stop
The best time to apply it is before bedtime, as it needs to be kept in contact with skin for 6-10 hours (approximately 8 hours).
Wash the area with mild soap and water and allow it to dry. The cream should be rubbed in until it is not visible. It can be removed by washing the area with mild soap and water.
A new sachet should be used for each treatment.
It is important you notify your doctor if you are planning to become or are currently pregnant (Pregnancy Category B1), breastfeeding, have any autoimmune conditions(such as eczema or psoriasis) or are HIV positive. A more suitable medication may be available for you.
