Aldara

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Product Info

Aldara - An Effective Treatment for Genital Warts

What Is Aldara & How Does It Work?

Aldara is a topical cream that helps to eliminate the presence of external genital and perianal warts on the skin. Aldara reduces the time that warts are present, and it also helps the body eliminate the HPV virus (Human Papilloma Virus) that causes the warts. Aldara is applied by the patient at home, so it is very convenient compared to liquid nitrogen and other treatments.

Clinical studies indicate that Aldara, when taken as directed, completely clears genital warts for most people who suffer from genital warts. Nearly 80 percent of patients remained clear of warts for 12 more weeks if they continued to use Aldara. Because Aldara (imiquimod is the drug name) does not destroy healthy skin, wart removal is not uncomfortable. Aldara can work in as little as 4 weeks.

Aldara activates the body's natural immune system. More specifically, it activates defense cells in the affected genital area, and the body is able to better defend itself against skin cells infected with HPV. Although Aldara is not considered an antiviral medication, it does reduce the amount of infected HPV cells (and therefore warts) and also can help lessen the frequency of HPV occurrences.

Aldara Precautions

Always speak with your physician before starting any new prescription medication. Tell them about every drug and supplement that you are taking, even if you purchased it over the counter. Use Aldara only as directed. It is for external use only, and eye contact should be avoided. Sexual contact should be avoided while Aldara is on the skin. Aldara can weaken condoms and vaginal diaphragms. Women who are pregnant or nursing should inform their doctor before they use Aldara.

How to Take Aldara

Follow the specific instructions provided by your physician. Aldara cream is typically applied one time per day, for three days per week, with a two- or three-day separation between uses. Do not use the cream more often, or for a longer period of time, than prescribed by your doctor. The affected area should be washed with mild soap and water and allowed to dry before application of Aldara. Wash your hands. Apply a thin layer of cream and rub it all the way in to the affected area or areas. Wash your hands. Leave the cream on the affected area for 6 to 10 hours, and then wash the affected area or areas again. If you forget to apply Aldara, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue on the regular schedule. Do not apply more than a thin layer of Aldara, as side effects may increase.

Aldara cream can easily and painlessly treat genital warts. Although Aldara is not a cure, it is a highly effective treatment for most people who use it as directed.

Aldara Side Effects

As with any prescription drug, there are potential side effects with Aldara. The most common side effects are mild-to-moderate skin reactions at the treatment site, including: redness, swelling, itching, burning, peeling, blisters, scabbing and crusting, hard or thickened skin and changes in skin color. Other side effects can include headache, back pain, muscle aches, tiredness and others.

If you experience any side effects that are uncomfortable, let your physician know about them. If you experience any severe side effects, seek immediate medical assistance and discontinue use of Aldara.

Manufactured by 3M Pharmaceuticals