Imiquimod is a topical cream that treats various skin disorders, such as anal or vaginal warts and skin cancer. Imiquimod doesn’t cure warts; new warts might form throughout therapy because it does not directly combat the viruses that produce warts. It does, however, assist in alleviating and managing wart development. Imiquimod is also used to treat actinic keratoses of the scalp and face and some kinds of skin cancer known as superficial basal cell carcinoma. Furthermore, the frequency with which you take the medicine is determined by your skin condition and the efficiency of the cream you are utilizing.
What is Imiquimod used for?
- Adults with superficial basal cell carcinoma
- Adults and kids aged 12 and above with anal and genital warts
- Scalp or face adult actinic keratosis
How does Imiquimod work?
Imiquimod boosts the immune system’s ability to produce cytokines, which are essential for combating infections and eliminating cancer cells. It causes inflammation that kills the lesion if utilized to treat pre-cancerous lesions and skin malignancies. The level of inflammation varies greatly across individuals, owing in part to the kind of skin lesion and in part to hereditary variables.
What are the possible side effects of using this cream?
You must consult your healthcare provider about the following side effects that you may be experiencing:
- Severe or rare skin rash
- Skin infection caused by open wounds with or without draining
Common side effects that may not need medical attention:
- Redness of the skin
- Peeling, crusting, and scabbing skin
- Thickened or hardened skin
- Itchy or burning skin
For medical recommendations on side effects, contact your doctor.
What are the treatment regimes for Imiquimod?
There are many Imiquimod therapy regimens available. Some are the following:
- Lentigo maligna: Used Imiquimod thrice weekly for six to sixteen weeks. Close monitoring is required.
- Genital warts: Imiquimod is utilized three times per week, or 3.75% cream daily when available, until final clearance or up to eight weeks.
- Intraepidermal carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas: Imiquimod is utilized five times weekly for six weeks.
- Actinic keratoses: Imiquimod is commonly taken twice a week for four to six weeks, then repeated when required after a four-week rest. Before using Imiquimod, very scaly lesions must be hardened with liquid nitrogen for roughly three weeks.
