Aldara Treatment for Warts
Aldara (Imiquimod) is a topical
treatment that is rubbed onto
the surface of the wart to
stimulate the immune system to
attack the cause of the benign
growth, the human papilloma
virus, HPV. It belongs to a
class of drugs called immune
response modifiers (IRMs). The
exact mechanism of action is
unknown, but it is believed that
imiquimod, the cream’s active
ingredient, binds immune cells
in the skin causing them to
release defense chemicals called
cytokines. The cytokines then
go on the attack and work by
inhibiting the replication of
viral particles.
Scientific Studies
Several scientific studies have
demonstrated good results for
the Aldara wart treatment cream’s efficacy. Clear-up
rates of 88.9 % were observed in
children with recalcitrant
non-genital warts. The cream
was applied twice daily and the
duration of treatment ranged
from two to 12 months (Grussendorf-Conen
El, Jacobs S. Efficacy of
imiquimod 5% cream in the
treatment of recalcitrant warts
in children. Pediatr Dermatol
2002; 19:263-6). A smaller
study that only involved 10
patients came to a similar
conclusion with complete
clearance of recalcitrant common
warts achieved in 9 cases (Muzio
G, Massone C, Rebora A.
Treatment of non-genital warts
with topical imiquimod 5%
cream. Eur J Dermatol 2002;
12:347-9).
However, one review came to the
opposite conclusion with the
scientists reporting that they
had found insufficient evidence
to support the use of imiquimod
for the treatment of cutaneous
non-genital warts
(Sterling JC, Handfield-Jones S,
Hudson PM. Guidelines for the
management of cutaneous warts.
Br J Dermatol 2001; 144: 4-11).
Aldara Application
The cream is usually applied
just before bedtime once the
affected area has been washed
and is dry. Aldara is left on
the wart for approximately 8
hours before being washed off.
The wart should not be covered
by a bandage unless directed by
a doctor, although cotton gauze
can be used. Tight fitting
clothes should be avoided.
Potential side effects include a
localized inflammatory response,
itching, burning sensation, and
flu-like symptoms.
FDA Approval
At the present moment in time
Aldara cream is used for genital
and perianal warts in patients
12 years or older. It has not
received FDA approval for
treatment on common warts.
You must have an Aldara
prescription to use the wart
treatment.
For more Aldara
information you should make an
appointment to see your doctor.
Common
misspellings: Aldera
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