Aldara Cream: A Topical Immunotherapy for Skin Condition Management
| Product dosage: 5% | |||
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| 10 | $20.30
Best per tube | $245.10 $202.96 (17%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
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Aldara (imiquimod) cream is a prescription topical immunotherapy agent indicated for the treatment of certain dermatological conditions, including external genital and perianal warts, superficial basal cell carcinoma, and actinic keratosis. As a toll-like receptor 7 agonist, it functions by stimulating a localized immune response, enabling the body to target and eliminate abnormal cells. This mechanism offers a non-invasive, patient-administered treatment option with a favorable efficacy profile. It is suitable for use in immunocompetent adult patients under appropriate medical supervision.
Features
- Contains 5% imiquimod as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in single-use packets or multi-use pump dispensers
- White-to-light yellow oil-in-water emulsion formulation
- Requires refrigeration (2°C–8°C) prior to opening; stable at room temperature (20°C–25°C) for limited periods after opening
- Applied topically; not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use
Benefits
- Provides a non-surgical treatment alternative for certain skin lesions
- Stimulates localized immune-mediated clearance of targeted abnormal tissue
- Allows for convenient at-home application with prescribed dosing schedules
- Demonstrates high clearance rates in approved indications with appropriate use
- May result in less scarring compared to some ablative procedures
- Offers targeted action with limited systemic absorption
Common use
Aldara cream is commonly prescribed for the management of external genital and perianal warts (condylomata acuminata) in adults, typically applied three times per week. It is also used for the treatment of clinically typical, non-hyperkeratotic, non-hypertrophic actinic keratosis on the face or scalp in adults, with application frequency varying by treatment area. Additionally, it is indicated for superficial basal cell carcinoma in immunocompetent adults with certain histological subtypes, typically applied five times per week. Treatment duration varies by indication and should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual patient factors and lesion characteristics.
Dosage and direction
Apply a thin layer of Aldara cream to the treatment area and rub in until the cream is no longer visible. Wash hands before and after application. For external genital/perianal warts: Apply three times per week (such as Monday, Wednesday, Friday) prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on the skin for 6-10 hours before washing off. For actinic keratosis: Apply two times per week (such as Monday and Thursday) to the face or scalp prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on for 8 hours before washing off. For superficial basal cell carcinoma: Apply five times per week (such as Monday through Friday) prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on for 8 hours before washing off. Treatment duration is typically 16 weeks for warts, 16 weeks for actinic keratosis, and 6 weeks for basal cell carcinoma, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
Precautions
Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and nostrils. Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin. Sexual contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin. The treatment area should not be covered with occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician. Sun exposure should be minimized during treatment. Use with caution in patients with autoimmune disorders or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Local skin reactions are common and may include erythema, edema, erosion, and scaling; treatment may need to be interrupted for severe reactions. Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to imiquimod or any component of the formulation. Should not be used on patients with known allergies to any ingredient in the cream. Not for use in patients with widespread or complicated basal cell carcinoma that requires specialized surgical management. Contraindicated in patients with congenital or acquired immunodeficiencies. Should not be used during pregnancy unless potential benefits justify potential risks to the fetus. Not for use on mucosal surfaces or intra-anal/genital areas unless specifically indicated and supervised by a healthcare provider.
Possible side effect
Common local reactions include application site reactions: erythema (70-85%), edema (20-40%), erosion (25-35%), scaling (25-35%), weeping/exudate (10-20%), and induration (15-25%). Systemic reactions may include fatigue (10-15%), headache (5-10%), myalgia (5-10%), and fever (2-5%). Less common reactions include itching, burning, pain, tenderness, and flulike symptoms. Severe local reactions may include ulceration, blistering, and skin breakdown. Rare cases of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation at the application site have been reported. Most local reactions are mild to moderate and typically resolve within 2-4 weeks after treatment cessation.
Drug interaction
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted. However, concomitant use with other topical medications applied to the same area should be avoided unless directed by a physician. Use with caution in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies as the immune response may be altered. Theoretically, concurrent use with other immune-stimulating agents might potentiate local or systemic immune responses. No known interactions with systemic medications, but caution is advised when using with drugs that affect immune function.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not apply extra cream to make up for the missed dose. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not apply more frequently than prescribed. If multiple doses are missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on resuming treatment. Maintaining the prescribed application schedule is important for optimal efficacy.
Overdose
Topical overdose may result in severe local skin reactions including intense erythema, edema, erosion, and pain. Systemic overdose is unlikely due to minimal absorption, but if accidental ingestion occurs, gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment may be considered. In case of topical overdose, wash the area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Seek medical attention if severe reactions occur. Supportive care should be provided based on symptoms. There is no specific antidote for imiquimod overdose.
Storage
Store unopened packets or pump at 2°C–8°C (36°F–46°F). Do not freeze. Once opened, the pump may be stored at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F) for extended periods, but individual packets should be used immediately after opening. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Discard any unused product appropriately.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Aldara cream is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Individual results may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding use, dosage, and treatment duration. Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly. The full prescribing information should be consulted before use.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Aldara cream achieves complete clearance in approximately 50-60% of patients with external genital warts, 45-55% with actinic keratosis, and 75-85% with superficial basal cell carcinoma. Most patients experience local skin reactions that correlate with treatment response. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high acceptability despite frequent local reactions, with many appreciating the non-invasive nature of treatment. Long-term follow-up studies show sustained clearance rates and low recurrence in appropriately selected patients. Dermatologists generally regard it as a valuable option in the therapeutic arsenal for specific dermatological conditions.