What should you know about imiquimod, Aldara and Zyclara?

Aldara and Zyclara are brand names; imiquimod is the active medicine. The cream changes local immune activity in treated skin. A clinician may prescribe it for selected superficial skin cancers, precancerous sun-damaged patches, or certain external viral warts. The correct strength, schedule and treatment area depend on the condition, location and your medical history. A cream that belongs to someone else should not be shared.

Apply only to the area and on the nights directed. Wash your hands before and after application, keep the cream away from the eyes and mouth, and do not cover the area unless your prescriber tells you to. Redness, crusting, scaling, soreness or weeping can occur as the skin responds. Do not add other irritating products to the treated area without advice. Keep follow-up appointments so the response can be assessed.

Contact the prescribing clinic if the reaction becomes difficult to manage, spreads beyond the treatment area, or stops you eating, sleeping or carrying out normal activities. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, trouble breathing, widespread blistering, faintness or signs of a serious infection such as rapidly worsening pain with fever.

Ask which diagnosis is being treated, which brand and strength you have, how often to apply it, what to do after a missed application, and when the treated skin should be reviewed. Mention pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune problems, skin allergies and all creams or medicines you use.