Imiquimod

Q: What precautions should I take?

Avoid sunlight as much as possible , Don’t go near the fire as it increases the risk of burns

Molecule Description

Imiquimod is used in the treatment of actinic keratosis (skin condition due to

sun exposure), secondary skin cancers and genital warts.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Imiquimod

It is used in the treatment of warts on the surface of sexual organs and around the anus (back passage)
It is also used to treat actinic keratosis ( skin condition due to sun exposure) and superficial basal cell carcinoma (slow-growing form of skin cancer which spread to other parts of the body)

Contraindications of Imiquimod

When should one not use Imiquimod

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to it.

Side effects of Imiquimod

Common side effects of this drug are:

Itching over the skin and sometimes in eyes
Red rash over skin
Pain
Irritation
Burning sensation
Muscle pain, joint pain
Nausea, loss of appetite
Headache, fatigue
Ringing in the ears, flushing
Dizziness, migraine
Insomnia, depression
Swollen glands
Bacterial, viral and fungal infections (e.g. cold sores)
Vaginal infection including thrush; cough and colds with sore throat

Precautions and Warnings of Imiquimod

Pregnancy

Can I take Imiquimod during pregnancy?

No data available about the effects of this medicine in an unborn baby when used during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Imiquimod while breastfeeding?

No data available whether this medicine passes in breast milk or not. Therefore avoid breastfeeding when on this medication.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Imiquimod?

This medicine does not affect the ability to drive.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Imiquimod?

No interaction found.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have previously used this medicine
You have low immunity or abnormal blood count

Mode of Action of Imiquimod

How Does It Work?

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier. It may induce certain chemicals called Cytokines. The exact mechanism of action remains unknown.

Interactions of Imiquimod

Interactions with other medicines

No significant medicine interactions are noted. But inform your doctor about all the medications that you are taking.

Interactions with food items

No specific interactions with food have been reported yet.

Dietary Restrictions of Imiquimod

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Dosage of Imiquimod

Overdose

Wash the extra medicine with soap and water. If you accidentally consumed the medicine, consult your doctor.

Missed a Dose

If you missed an application of the medicine, don’t panic - use when you remember. Then continue it as per the schedule.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Imiquimod?

Inform the doctor about your detailed medical, surgical and allergy history
Inform your physician if you have any of the following conditions: Sunburn
Weak immune system, auto-immune disease
Graft versus host disease
Received a bone marrow transplant
If you are pregnant, lactating or planning a pregnancy

Q: What precautions should I take?

Avoid sunlight as much as possible
Don’t go near the fire as it increases the risk of burns

References

Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.