Aldara is a topical prescription medication used to treat warts on the exterior of the genitals and rectum. It is also indicated as a treatment for superficial basal cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) and actinic keratosis (a skin condition caused by too much sun exposure).

This medication is supplied as a topical cream that is applied to the outside of the body. It should not be ingested or applied under the skin. Aldara contains imiquimod, which is available in generic form. It is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider.

Aldara is prescribed as a treatment for three distinct skin conditions. As a topical medication, it is meant to be applied to the affected area during treatment.

Genital Warts: Aldara is prescribed as a treatment for warts on the exterior of the genitals and rectum (also known as condyloma acuminatum). These warts are caused by an infection of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.

Aldara does not cure genital warts. It works on the immune system to fight the virus (HPV) that causes these warts.

Actinic keratosis: Actinic keratosis, also called solar keratosis, is characterized by rough, flaky, and scaly patches on the skin. It is commonly found on the face, back, hands, scalp, and neck. While actinic keratosis can affect people of all ages, it is most common in older adults.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, actinic keratosis is the “most common precancer that forms on the skin.” When applied to the affected area regularly, Aldara has been shown to reduce the scaly, flaking skin caused by this condition.

Superficial basal cell carcinoma: Superficial basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that commonly develops as a small bump on the trunk, head, or neck. Superficial basal cell carcinoma is the least aggressive form of basal cell carcinoma. While it rarely causes serious medical complications, it can cause open sores or lesions that do not go away.

Aldara belongs to a classification of medications known as immune response modifiers. These drugs work by targeting cells in the immune system. This promotes the production of specific proteins (known as interferons) that the immune system releases to fight viruses and pathogens.

As a treatment for genital warts, imiquimod encourages the production of interferons that target the human papillomavirus (HPV). It does not attack the virus directly. However, by stimulating the immune response to HPV, imiquimod works to prevent the development of genital warts.

Aldara’s mechanism of action on actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma is unknown, although it has been shown to reduce symptoms on the skin caused by these conditions.

Aldara has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from Aldara use include:

• Redness, itching, or burning in the affected area
  
• Flaking, scaling, or dryness of the skin
  
• Blisters and swelling
  
• Headache
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Fatigue
  
  

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects caused by Aldara.

Rarer, more severe side effects include:

• Shortness of breath
  
• Open sores in the affected area
  
• Flu-like symptoms (nausea, muscle weakness or pain, and chills)
  
  

If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

It is recommended that you avoid sun exposure as much as possible. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen if you go outside – especially on the affected areas.

As with all prescription medications, inform your prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have and any medications and supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with Aldara. Aldara can also interact with other medicines and substances, leading to potentially serious side effects. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with Aldara. If you become pregnant while taking Aldara, notify your health care provider immediately.

Aldara is supplied as a topical cream for the affected skin area. It should not be ingested or applied underneath the skin.

To use Aldara:

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water before applying.
  
• Clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap.
  
• Allow the skin to dry before using.
  
• Apply a thin layer of cream (one or two pumps from the dispenser) to the affected area. Rub the medication in gently. Do this right before bed.
  
• Wash your hands after application.
  
• Allow the medication to stay on the skin for 8 hours (if used as a treatment for actinic keratosis or superficial basal cell carcinoma) or 6–10 hours (if used as a treatment for genital warts).
  
• After the treatment, wash the affected area with warm water and mild soap until the cream is completely off the skin.
  
  

Talk to your health care provider about how much cream you should use and how frequently you should apply it. Specific dosages may vary depending on the condition and needs of the patient.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of Aldara without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Aldara is only available by prescription from a licensed health care provider. Providers on Sesame can order Aldara for local pickup on the same day. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Aldara to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered immediately for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.