What is imiquimod, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Imiquimod is a topical medication that activates the immune system and is used for treating (not curing)genital warts. Although the exact mechanism of action imiquimod is not known, imiquimod is presumed to work by activating immune cells and chemicals that affect the immune the system. The FDA approved brand name imiquimod (Aldara) in February 1997.
What brand names are available for imiquimod?
Aldara, Zyclara
Is imiquimod available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for imiquimod?
Yes
What are the side effects of imiquimod?
Side effects of imiquimod are:
- application site reactions,
- upper respiratory tract infections,
- sinus infection,
- headache,
- diarrhea,
- erosion,
- 水肿,
- itching,
- flaking, and
- redness.
What is the dosage for imiquimod?
Adults and children of ages 12 and older:
Actinic keratosis: Apply Aldara to specific treatment area two times a week for 16 weeks.
Superficialbasal cell carcinoma: Apply to specific treatment area five times a week for 6 weeks.
Externalgenital warts: Apply Aldara three times a week until clearance ofwartsor for a maximum of 16 weeks.
Safe and effective use of imiquimod is not established for children under the age of 12.
Which drugs or supplements interact with imiquimod?
No drug-drug interactionshave been conducted and established with imiquimod.
![](https://images.medicinenet.com//images/slideshow/common-adult-skin-problems-s1-photo-of-freckled-young-woman.jpg)
SLIDESHOW
Rosacea, Acne, Shingles, Covid-19 Rashes: Common Adult Skin DiseasesSee SlideshowIs imiquimod safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies done on imiquimod to determine safe and effective use inpregnantwomen.
It is not known whether imiquimod entersbreast milk. It is best to be cautious before using it innursingmothers.
What else should I know about imiquimod?
What preparations of imiquimod-topical are available?
Cream: 2.5%, 3.75%, and 5%
How should I keep imiquimod-topical stored?
Store imiquimod cream between temperatures of 4 C to 25 C (39 F - 77 F).
Health News
- Could Hair Relaxers Affect a Woman's Fertility?
- Lymph Node Removal During Breast Cancer Mastectomy: Is It Overdone?
- Opioid Addiction Treatment Rates in U.S. Have Flatlined, Study Finds
- Many American Teens Are in Mental Health Crisis: Report
- Why People Love Selfies: It's Not About Vanity
More Health News »
Summary
Imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) is a topical cream used in the treatment of genital warts. The medication works by stimulating the immune system cells and chemicals to attack the affected area. The medicine may also be prescribed to fight different types of skin cancer. Side effects, drug interactions, and patient safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
12 Preventable STDs: Pictures, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and genital herpes are common STDs. Think you might have an STD? You’re not alone....
Skin Cancer Symptoms, Types, Images
Discover the causes, types, and treatments of skin cancer. Learn how to prevent skin cancer and how to check for melanoma, basal...
STD Quiz: Symptoms, Testing & List
There are more sexually transmitted diseases than just the ones you've heard of. Find out what you've been missing with the STD...
Picture of Genital Warts (HPV)
A wart in the moist skin of the genitals or around the anus. See a picture of Genital Warts (HPV) and learn more about the health...
Related Disease Conditions
Genital Warts (HPV) Infection in Women
Genital warts is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts look like raised, flesh-colored lumps. Learn about symptoms, transmission, and treatment.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin disease that causes painless pink bumps on the skin. Learn about treatment, home remedies, and other symptoms associated with this viral infection.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancers occur when skin cells undergo malignant transformations and grow into tumors. The most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are highly curable when they are diagnosed and treated early. Sun exposure, tanning beds, depressed immune system, radiation exposure, and certain viral infections are risk factors for skin cancer. Skin cancers are treated with surgery or radiation. The prognosis of nonmelanoma skin cancers is generally very good.
Warts (Common Warts)
Common warts are skin growths causes by the human papillomavirus. There are many types of warts, including plantar warts, common hand warts, warts under the nails, mosaic wars, and flat warts. Over-the-counter treatments typically involve the use of salicylic acid products.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Infection
人乳头状瘤病毒或病毒的人类乳头状瘤病毒是一组that infect human mucous membranes and skin. HPV is highly contagious. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and vaccines.
Keloid Scar
A keloid is a scar that doesn't know when to stop. When the cells keep on reproducing, the result is an overgrown (hypertrophic) scar or a keloid. A keloid looks shiny and is often dome-shaped, ranging in color from slightly pink to red. It feels hard and thick and is always raised above the surrounding skin.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches of skin that are considered precancerous and are due to sun exposure. Prevention is to cut sun exposure and wear sunscreen.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
Prevention & Wellness
Health SolutionsFrom Our Sponsors
![FDA Logo](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/logo_fda.png)
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit theFDA MedWatchwebsite or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information