Aldara precautions
Aldara should not be applied to warts inside the vagina or anus. Aldara cream may weaken the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms. Sexual (genital, anal, oral) contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin. Aldara is not a cure for genital warts. Therefore you should exercise caution when engaging in sexual activity with others, even when warts are completely gone. During treatment DO NOT cover warts with bandages or any other closed dressings.
What to tell your doctor
The effectiveness and safety of Aldara cream has not been studied in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or nursing check with your doctor and see if Aldara is right for you.
Aldara side effects
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:; skin ulcer; skin rash; unusual or severe skin reaction
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome)
; redness of the skin (very common but is usually not painful or harmful); burning or itching; erosion or flaking of the skin treatment area; headache; scabbing; swelling of the skin
How Does ALDARA Cream Work?
Aldara is a prescription cream that treats external genital or anal warts. However, because imiquimod does not kill the virus (HPV virus) that causes the warts, new warts may appear during or after treatment. Imiquimod cream may also be used to treat other skin conditions such as actinic keratosis or certain skin cancers.
How Do I Use ALDARA Cream?
ALDARA cream is rubbed directly on the wart(s). It should not be taken by mouth or used in or near the eyes.
How To Use ALDARA Cream:
- Wash hands and open a new packet of ALDARA cream just before bedtime
- Apply a thin layer of cream on the wart(s)
- Rub the cream in until it vanishes
- Discard the open packet and wash hands
- Leave the cream on the wart(s) for 6 to 10 hours
- After 6 to 10 hours, wash the area where ALDARA cream was applied with mild soap and water.
Always apply ALDARA cream as directed by your health care provider.
When Should I Use ALDARA Cream?
It is important to use ALDARA cream as directed by your health care provider. Typically, dosing is once a day, 3 days a week:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, or
- Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
Apply ALDARA cream at bedtime, after bathing, so you do not wash off the cream. Treatment with ALDARA cream should continue until the warts are completely gone, or up to 16 weeks. Your health care provider can tell you how often and for how long you need to use ALDARA cream.
Can I Have Sex While Using ALDARA Cream?
Sexual contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin. If you decide to have sexual relations, apply ALDARA cream after - not before - sexual activity. If you have already applied the cream, it should be washed off before sexual activity. In addition, ALDARA cream may weaken condoms and diaphragms; therefore the cream should not be left on during sexual activity. The effect of ALDARA cream on the transmission of genital warts is unknown.
What If I Forget A Dose?
Apply the missed dose of cream as soon as you remember and then continue on the regular schedule.
What Can I Expect From ALDARA Cream?
Results vary from person to person. Many people see reddening or swelling on or around the warts during the course of treatment.
In clinical trials, about one-half of patients completely cleared their warts. In most patients, the warts disappeared in 8 to 12 weeks. However, some patients got rid of their warts in 4 weeks and others took up to 16 weeks. Patients should be aware that new warts may develop during therapy, as ALDARA cream is not a cure. For best results with ALDARA cream, follow your health care provider's instructions closely.
Will I Get Any Side Effects From ALDARA Cream?
There are some side effects associated with ALDARA cream. Side effects are most often at the wart area and are usually mild to moderate.
Most common side effects are redness, peeling, and swelling in the area where ALDARA cream is applied.
Some patients have also experienced burning, itching, and pain where ALDARA cream was applied. These may be caused by the response of your body's immune system to the drug. However, if you experience a severe skin reaction, contact your health care provider.
What Should I Avoid While Using ALDARA Cream?
Do not cover warts with bandages or other closed dressings. Avoid using overly large amounts of cream. A thin layer that completely covers each wart is enough.
Who Should Not Use ALDARA Cream?
ALDARA cream has not been studied in pregnant women. If you are pregnant, check with your health care provider. Additionally, ALDARA cream should not be applied to warts inside the vagina or anus.
As with any prescription medicine, there are some general rules you should follow:
- Always use ALDARA cream as directed by your doctor or health care provider
- Try to stick to your dosing schedule
- Discard any unused cream after each application
- Do not share ALDARA cream with anyone else; it was prescribed only for you
- Keep ALDARA cream and all medicines out of the reach of children.
This information does not replace advice given by your doctor or health care provider. If you have any questions about ALDARA cream, your health care provider can discuss them with you.
