Imiquimod (Topical)

Brand Names : Aldara

Proper Use of This Medicine

To apply the medicine:

• Wash your hands before and after using the medicine . Avoid getting the medicine into your eyes.
• Use the medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it longer than directed.
• Allow medicine to stay on skin for 6 to 10 hours, then wash area thoroughly with soap and water.
• Throw out any unused cream from the single-dose packet.
• Do not apply an occlusive dressing (airtight covering, such as kitchen plastic wrap) over the medicine, unless told to do so by your doctor. To do so may cause irritation of the skin. Other materials that are not airtight, such as cotton gauze or cotton underclothes, may be used.

Dosing - The dose of imiquimod will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of imiquimod. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For topical dosage form (cream):
  • For warts on the skin outside of the genital or rectal areas (condyloma acuminatum):
    • Adults - Apply a thin film to wart once every other day (three times a week) before normal sleeping hours. Rub in well and leave on for six to ten hours. Remove medicine from wart by washing with mild soap and water. Continue treatment until wart is gone or for up to sixteen weeks.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, wait until the next evening to apply it. Then go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Keep the medicine from freezing. Do not refrigerate.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.