How long does it take for the warts to disappear?

The treatment usually takes 8–16 weeks. First reductions can be visible after 4 weeks. Patience is important – the immune response needs time. Not all warts disappear simultaneously.

Is skin redness normal?

Yes, a local redness, slight swelling and dandruff are desired and show that the immune system works. In case of strong reactions, take a few days break and then continue.

Can the warts come back after the treatment?

The fallback rate at Aldara® is relatively low at about 13–19 %. Imiquimod also combats subclinical infections. Nevertheless, a relapse is possible because the virus can remain in the body.

May I have intercourse during the treatment?

Not as long as the cream is on the skin (it can weaken condoms). Wash off the cream before you have intimate contact. Genital warts are contagious – Condoms reduce transmission risk, but do not offer complete protection.

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What is aldara?

Aldara® is a cream with the active ingredient Imiquimod (5%), which is used for the treatment of external genital and perianal warts (Condylomata acuminata, fig warts) in adults. These warts are caused by human papilloma viruses (HPV), usually the types 6 and 11.

Imiquimod is an immune modulator – it activates the body's immune system to combat the viruses and to reject the warts. The cream is applied by the patient himself at home, which is a great advantage over doctor treatments.

Aldara® is also approved for the treatment of actinic keratose and superficial basal carcinomas.

Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action

Active ingredient: Imiquimod (5 %)

Active mechanism:

Imiquimod activates Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) on immune cells
Stimulates the production of interferon-alpha and other cytokines
Local immune response is enhanced
Virus infected cells are detected and destroyed

Immunological cascade:

Activation of dendritic cells and macrophages
Enhanced T cell response against HPV infected cells
Induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) of wart cells
Long-term immune memory formation

Advantages:

Low fall rate (about 13–19 %) compared to destructive methods
Self-application at home possible
also treats subclinical (non-visible) HPV lesions in the treatment area

Who is it suitable for?

Aldara® is suitable for:

Adults with outer genital and perianal warts
Warts on normal skin (not on mucous membranes)
Self-treatment at home

Not suitable:

Internal (vaginal, cervical, urethral, anale) warts
Children under 18 (for this indication)
Pregnancy (inappropriate data)
Immunosuppressed patients (restricted action)
Open wounds or inflamed skin

Available Dosages

Genital warnings:

Apply three times a week (e.g. Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
Apply before bed
Wash off after 6-10 hours
Maximum treatment time: 16 weeks

Application quantity:

Apply thin layer to warts
1 bag for an area of about 20 cm2
Only apply to outer warts

Current:

First improvement after 4-8 weeks
Complete healing after 8–16 weeks
redness and light inflammation are signs of action

How to Take

Application: 1. Wash your hands before bed Two. Apply thin layer Aldara® to warts 3. Gently rub until the cream is drawn in 4. Wash hands thoroughly Five. The next morning (after 6–10 hours) wash with mild soap and water

Important notes:

Do not use under the Occlusive Association
No intercourse as long as the cream is on the skin
Condoms and diaphragms can be weakened by the cream
With strong skin reaction: 1–2 applications leave
Do not apply to open wounds or mucous membranes

Contraindications

**Aldara® must not be used at:* *

hypersensitivity to imiquimod
Inside genital warts

Preview at:

Autoimmune diseases
Organ-transplanted/immune-suppressed
Untreated preskin gene (Phimose)
Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not apply to:

mucous membranes (vaginal, anal inside, urethral)
Open wounds
Sun damaged skin at the same time

Possible Side Effects

**Very common (> 10 %):* *

Local skin reactions: redness, erosion, dandruff, swelling, crust formation
These reactions are signs of immune activation and desired!

Family (1–10 %):

Burn, itching at the job site
Headaches
Flu-like symptoms
muscle pain

Occasionally:

Pain at the job site
Local infection
lymph node swelling

** Mild to moderate skin reactions are normal and a sign of efficacy. In case of strong reactions (open places, severe pain) take a break of several days.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is aldara right for you?

A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.

Important Notice

This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Important Safety Information

This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.