Aldara Cream: Effective Topical Immunotherapy for Skin Conditions
| Product dosage: 5% | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per tube | Price | Buy |
| 2 | $28.61 | $57.23 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 3 | $26.77 | $85.84 $80.32 (6%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 4 | $25.60 | $114.46 $102.41 (11%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 5 | $25.10 | $143.07 $125.50 (12%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 6 | $24.60 | $171.69 $147.59 (14%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 7 | $24.24 | $200.30 $169.68 (15%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 8 | $23.97 | $228.92 $191.77 (16%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 9 | $23.87 | $257.53 $214.86 (17%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 10 | $23.69
Best per tube | $286.14 $236.95 (17%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
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Aldara (imiquimod) Cream is a prescription topical immunomodulator indicated for the treatment of external genital and perianal warts/condylomata acuminata in adults, superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC), and actinic keratosis (AK) on the face or scalp. It functions by stimulating the local immune response, enabling the body to target and eliminate abnormal cells. This non-invasive treatment offers a valuable alternative to surgical or destructive procedures, providing targeted action with a favorable tolerability profile when used under appropriate medical supervision.
Features
- Contains 5% imiquimod as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in single-use packets (250 mg each) or multi-use pump bottles (12.5 g total)
- White-to-light-yellow oil-in-water emulsion cream formulation
- Prescription-only medication requiring healthcare provider authorization
- Shelf-stable at controlled room temperature (20–25°C)
- Applied topically, typically at bedtime, allowing overnight absorption
Benefits
- Stimulates localized immune response to target and clear abnormal skin cells and lesions
- Provides a non-invasive treatment alternative to surgical excision, cryotherapy, or laser ablation
- Reduces recurrence rates of certain lesions through immune-mediated clearance
- Convenient at-home application with clear, structured dosing schedules
- Minimizes scarring risk compared to more invasive procedural interventions
- Effective across multiple dermatologic indications with a well-established efficacy profile
Common use
Aldara Cream is most frequently prescribed for the management of external anogenital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) in immunocompetent adult patients. It is also approved for the treatment of clinically typical, nonhyperkeratotic, nonhypertrophic actinic keratoses on the face or scalp in adults, and for superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) in adults with normal immune status, particularly when surgical methods are less appropriate. The cream is applied directly to the affected area, where it induces a localized immune reaction that targets virally infected or dysplastic cells. Treatment duration and frequency vary by indication, typically ranging from several weeks to a full 16-week course, with regular clinical evaluation recommended to monitor therapeutic response and local skin reactions.
Dosage and direction
Apply Aldara Cream once daily at bedtime, 3 times per week (such as Monday, Wednesday, Friday), with at least one day between applications. Wash hands before and after application. Apply a thin layer to the treatment area and rub in until the cream is no longer visible. Do not cover with occlusive dressings unless directed by a healthcare provider. Allow the cream to remain on the skin for 6–10 hours, then wash off with mild soap and water. Treatment duration is typically up to 16 weeks for external genital warts, 6 weeks for actinic keratosis, and 12 weeks for superficial basal cell carcinoma, unless complete clearance occurs earlier.
Precautions
Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and nostrils. Do not use on open wounds or broken skin. Sexual contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin, as it may weaken condoms and diaphragms and potentially transfer to partners. Sun exposure should be minimized during treatment, and sunscreen/protective clothing recommended. Local skin reactions (redness, swelling, erosion) are common and usually indicate an immune response; however, severe reactions may require treatment interruption. Use with caution in patients with autoimmune conditions or those taking immunosuppressive medications. Not recommended for mucosal surfaces or intra-anal/vaginal application.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to imiquimod or any component of the formulation. Should not be used by patients with known allergies to the cream’s excipients, including benzyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, white petrolatum, and polysorbate 60. Not indicated for treatment of internal genital warts (intraurethral, intravaginal, intra-anal). Contraindicated in patients with compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV, organ transplant recipients, chemotherapy patients) unless specifically directed by a specialist. Not recommended for use during pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk.
Possible side effect
Most side effects are localized to the application site and include erythema (70–85% of patients), erosion (25–45%), flaking/scaling (20–35%), edema (15–25%), and induration (15–20%). Systemic reactions are uncommon but may include fatigue (5%), headache (5%), myalgia (5%), and fever (2%). Less frequently reported effects include itching, burning, ulceration, and hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation at the treatment site. Severe local reactions may occasionally lead to discontinuation. Rare cases of systemic allergic reactions have been reported. Most local reactions are mild to moderate and manageable with temporary treatment breaks.
Drug interaction
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted. Theoretical interactions may occur with other topical medications applied to the same area, potentially increasing irritation or absorption. Concurrent use with other immune-stimulating agents may potentiate inflammatory responses. Caution is advised when using with corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents, as they may reduce efficacy. No known interactions with systemic medications, though caution is warranted with drugs that affect immune function.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next application. Do not apply two doses closer than 48 hours apart. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application. Resume the regular dosing schedule with the next planned application. Consistency in application schedule supports optimal immune stimulation and treatment outcomes.
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, though excessive application over large areas could theoretically increase systemic exposure. If suspected overdose occurs, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. Symptomatic management of local reactions may include cool compresses, emollients, and temporary treatment discontinuation. Seek medical attention if severe reactions occur or if accidental ingestion happens (though unlikely with topical formulation).
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature 20–25°C (68–77°F). Do not freeze. Keep the tube or packet tightly closed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused cream 30 days after opening the packet or pump bottle. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional 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. Patients should discuss their medical history, current medications, and treatment options with their healthcare provider before beginning therapy. Only a licensed healthcare professional can determine if this medication is appropriate for your specific condition.
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. Dermatologists frequently note its value as a non-surgical option with good cosmetic outcomes. Patients commonly report satisfaction with avoidance of procedures, though many experience expected local skin reactions during treatment. The convenience of home application is frequently cited as a positive aspect, though adherence to the prescribed schedule is important for optimal results. Long-term follow-up studies show sustained clearance in many patients, particularly when treatment is completed as directed.