The following information is a summary about ALDARA. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.

Cream
Chemical Name: IMIQUIMOD (i-mi-KWI-mod)

Common uses
This medicine is an immune response modifier used to treat external genital and perianal warts.

Before using
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Wash and completely dry the affected area. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Wash your hands immediately after using this medicine. DO NOT BANDAGE OR WRAP the affected area unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Wash the affected area 6 to 10 hours after applying this medicine. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it daily at bedtime, skip the missed dose. Do NOT use the dose in the morning.

Cautions
IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL WEEKS for this medicine to work. Do not stop using this medicine without checking with your doctor. Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes or on the inside of your nose and mouth. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than 16 weeks without checking with your doctor. THIS MEDICINE MAY DECREASE THE EFFECTIVENESS of condoms and diaphragms. Use another form of birth control while you are using this medicine. FOR WOMEN: IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include burning, itching, redness, peeling, or swelling of surrounding areas. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. 

If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include severe flaking, cracking, or swelling of affected area; fainting; weakness; and dizziness.

Additional information
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.