Imiquimod

(i mi KWI mod)

U.S. Brand Names

Aldara™

Canadian Brand Names

Aldara™

Mexican Brand Names

Aldara

Pharmacologic Category

Skin and Mucous Membrane Agent; Topical Skin Product

Reasons not to take this medicine

• If you have an allergy to imiquimod or any other part of this medicine.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used to treat common warts.

• This medicine is used to treat genital warts.

• This medicine is used to treat sun damaged skin and some skin cancers.

How does it work?

• Imiquimod helps the body's immune system fight viral infections.

• It may affect the cancer cells or the body's response to the cancer.

How is it best taken?

• Do not take this medicine by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).

• Do not apply in the vagina or anus.

• Use at bedtime.

• Wash hands before and after use.

• Clean affected area before use. Make sure to dry well.

• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently.

• For sun damaged skin, do not cover more than an area the size of your forehead or cheek.

• Avoid applying to unaffected skin.

• Do not cover with dressings.

• Do not bathe, shower, or swim after applying.

• Leave on skin for the directed amount of time, then wash off.

What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.

• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.

• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.

• Do not have sexual contact when this medicine is on your genital or anal skin.

• For genital warts only: Condoms or diaphragms may not work to prevent pregnancy. Use another form of birth control while taking this medicine.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Skin irritation.

• Change in skin to hard and thickened.

• Change in color of skin. This may not be reversible.

• Swelling.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?

• Follow up with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Severe skin irritation.

• Any rash.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

General statements

• If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.

• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).

• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.



Created: 2006-10-13 13:12:43.0

Modified: 2008-02-08 14:52:33.0

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