• Imiquimod is an immune response modifier
• Imiquimod topical can treat actinic keratosis on the face and scalp, basal cell carcinoma, and genital warts that occur on the outside of the body
• Imiquimod should be used in adults and children that are at least 12 years old
• Imiquimod may have other uses not referenced here on this webpage

Always follow the medication guidelines, your doctor's instructions, and your dosage amount instructions exactly. 

• Do not overuse or use for too long to avoid risk of skin reactions
• Prior to application, wash hands and wash treatment area, then allow skin to dry
• Wash hands after applying medication
• Do not use on wounded/broken/burned skin
• Usually, imiquimod is used 2-5 times a week for up to 16 weeks, but it depends on the specific condition you are treating, so consult with your doctor for more information
• You may require regular skin check-ups
• Contact your doctor if your condition worsens
• Do not use imiquimod to another skin condition that hasn't been seen by a doctor
• Packets of this topical are designed to be single-use; dipose of packet after use, even if there are leftovers
• If you need to treat multiple areas at once, ask your doctor how many packets you need
• Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture
• Only open a packet when you need it; otherwise, keep them sealed
• If you miss a dose, skip it and wait until your next scheduled dose

*Always inform your doctor of all known medications, medical conditions, and allergies prior to taking a new drug, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, supplements, recreational drugs, and vitamins.

General precautions:

• Do not overuse or use too long, as this may increase your risk of skin reactions
• Do not use on wounded or burned skin
• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, rectum, vagina, urethra; rinse these areas with water if contact occurs
• Avoid close contact with sensitive  inner layers of vaginal tissue
• Avoid sunlight and tanning bed exposure; wear sun protection
• Avoid sexual activity if topical in genital area has not been fully absorbed; it may weaken birth control devices
• Avoid using other topicals on the same treatment area unless your doctor directs you to
• This drug does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections
• This drug does not cure or prevent the spread of genital warts

Before starting this medication, inform your doctor if you have experienced or have:

• An autoimmune disorder
• Graft-versus-host disease
• A recent bone marrow or cord blood transplant
• Sunburn, other skin issues
• Recent treatment for actinic keratosis or genital warts with surgery or other drugs
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Breastfeed or plan to breastfeed

Do not use this medication if you:

• Are under 12 years old
• Are allergic

Cease use and seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• An overdose (Possible symptoms: severe skin irritation, lightheadedness, fainting sensation)
• An allergic reaction
• Other symptoms (see Side Effects)

Interactions (inform your doctor if you also take):

• Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, herbs, and vitamins
• Please note that the precautionary information, interactions, and side effects listed on this webpage are not exhaustive. Other effects may occur. Please consult with your doctor about the relevance of this information to your personal case.

Always inform your doctor of all known medications, medical conditions, and allergies prior to taking a new drug, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, supplements, recreational drugs, and vitamins.

Side effects may include:

• Mild skin irritation
• Color changes on treated skin
• Headaches, dizziness, chest pain, back pain
• Cold sores, fever blisters
• Cold symptoms
• Nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite
• Vaginal itching, discharge

Cease use and seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• An overdose (Possible symptoms: severe skin irritation, lightheadedness, fainting sensation)
• Symptoms of allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swollen face/lips/tongue/throat

Cease use and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Any serious skin reaction (wash off topical)
• Flu symptoms, such as: chills, body aches, swollen glands, fatigue
• If treating genital warts near vagina, if you experience swelling and urination issues

Please note that the precautionary information, interactions, and side effects listed on this webpage are not exhaustive. Other effects may occur. Please consult with your doctor about the relevance of this information to your personal case.