Drug
Imiquimod
Pronounced
"im-I-kwi-mod"
Uses
Imiquimod is used to treat actinic keratoses (AK) which are precancerous growths on the skin. AK are caused by too much sun exposure. Treating this condition can decrease the risk of complications from them. It is also used to treat warts on the outside of the genitals/anus. Imiquimod belongs to a group of drugs called immune response modifiers. It is believed to work by helping to activate your immune system to fight these abnormal skin growths.
This product is not recommended for use on children under 12 years of age unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using imiquimod and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Use this medication on the skin only. Apply this medication to the affected area as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. The number of times you apply this medication depends on the specific skin problem that is being treated. When treating actinic keratoses, apply once a day for 2 weeks. You will then rest the treated skin for the next two weeks by not applying any more imiquimod. After this rest period, you will resume applying this medication once a day for another 2 weeks. When treating warts, apply once a day until the warts clear or up to 8 weeks.
Do not apply this medication to broken skin (such as open wounds, infected areas, rash, burns). Also, do not apply this medication in the eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina. If you get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. If irritation occurs, talk to your doctor right away.
If you are using the pump, prime the pump as directed before using it for the first time. If you are using the packet, use a new packet of cream for each use. Throw away any partly used packets of medication.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Before applying the medication, wash your hands and the area to be treated with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. Apply as directed by your doctor just before going to bed. Wash your hands with soap and water after each application. Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other waterproof coverings. Leave the cream on overnight, usually for about 8 hours. In the morning, wash the treated area with soap and water to remove the cream. Do not bathe or wet the treated area before the prescribed application time has passed. Do not use more imiquimod than prescribed or leave it on longer than prescribed by your doctor. Doing so may cause more severe skin reactions to occur.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse or if new growths appear during treatment.