What should you know about imiquimod for common warts?

Common warts are rough growths caused by a viral infection in the outer skin. Imiquimod is applied to selected skin to encourage local immune activity. It is not suitable for every wart, and a rough bump can sometimes be another type of lesion. Redness, itching, scaling, crusting, or soreness at the application site can occur as the skin reacts.

Use the exact amount and schedule prescribed. Wash hands before and after application, avoid sharing towels or nail tools, and keep the treated area covered only when instructed. Do not pick, cut, or shave across the wart. Protect nearby skin from unnecessary irritation and ask before combining treatment with salicylic acid or another wart product. Options such as cryotherapy, electrosurgery, or wart removal may be discussed if the diagnosis or response calls for a different approach.

Arrange medical review if the growth is painful, rapidly changing, bleeding, infected, located near the eye or genitals, or difficult to distinguish from surrounding skin. Contact the prescriber for extensive blistering, severe swelling, pus, fever, or a reaction that prevents normal activities. Do not increase applications because the wart has not changed quickly.

Ask whether the growth is definitely a common wart, how to protect surrounding skin, what reaction is expected, and when to assess progress. Ask which treatment is appropriate if imiquimod causes too much irritation or does not suit the location.