Aldara Cream 5% (Imiquimod)
Compared with: Blackmores Conceive Well Gold 28 Tablets + 28 Capsules

Aldara Cream 5% (Imiquimod) is a topical immune response modifier used to treat actinic keratosis, superficial basal cell carcinoma, and external genital warts. Its mechanism of action stimulates innate and adaptive immunity to clear abnormal or virus‑infected skin cells. Aldara offers a non‑surgical option with targeted inflammation and lesion resolution.
Imiquimod 5% per gram of cream

Other Popular and Common Names
Imiquimod Cream

TLR‑7 Agonist Topical Agent

Zyclara (alternate brand)

Aldara™ 5% Cream

Topical Immunomodulator
Imiquimod is a toll‑like receptor‑7 (TLR‑7) agonist. By binding TLR‑7 on dendritic cells and macrophages, it triggers nuclear factor‑κB (NF‑κB) signaling and induces production of cytokines (interferon‑α, TNF‑α, interleukins). This local immune activation recruits cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells, promoting destruction of dysplastic or virally infected keratinocytes.
Actinic Keratosis: Treatment of multiple, non‑hyperkeratotic, non‑hypertrophic lesions on the face or scalp.

Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC): For biopsy‑confirmed, primary sBCC lesions measuring ≤2 cm².

External Genital and Perianal Warts (Condyloma Acuminata): In immunocompetent adults.
Indication Frequency Duration Notes
Actinic Keratosis 3 times weekly 4 weeks Apply before bedtime; wash off after 8 hours
Superficial BCC 5 times weekly 6 weeks Facial lesions only; monitor local reaction
Genital/Perianal Warts 3 times weekly Up to 16 weeks or until wart clearance Use on alternate days, not daily

Application: Clean and dry skin. Apply a thin layer to lesions and 0.5 cm surrounding skin. No occlusive dressings.

Wash Off: Gently wash treated area with mild soap and water 6–10 hours post‑application.
Formulation: White to off‑white cream in single‑use sachets (12.5 mg cream)

Strength: Imiquimod 5% w/w

Route: Topical cutaneous

Legal Status: Prescription Only Medicine
Pregnancy: Category C – Use only if clearly needed; limited human data.

Breastfeeding: Caution; avoid application on breasts.

Children <12 years: Safety and effectiveness not established.

Elderly: No dosage adjustment, though increased sensitivity possible.

Erythema, edema, scaling, crusting
Flaking or peeling skin
Itching, burning, stinging
Tenderness at application site
Flu‑like symptoms (fever, myalgia)
Lymphadenopathy
Headache
Rare hypersensitivity reactions (urticaria, angioedema)
Excessive Inflammation: Severe local reactions warrant temporary interruption.
Sun Exposure: Advise sun protection; avoid UV lamps during treatment.
Adjacent Mucous Membranes: Avoid contact with eyes, lips, nostrils, and mucosa.
Skin Conditions: Caution in patients with atopic dermatitis or rosacea.
Immunocompromised Patients: Efficacy and safety not well‑established.
Therapeutic Class: Topical Immunomodulator
Pharmacologic Class: TLR‑7 Agonist
Legal Category: Prescription Only
No significant systemic interactions expected due to minimal systemic absorption.

Concurrent Topicals: Avoid combining with other harsh topical agents (e.g., retinoids, corticosteroids) unless directed.
Vaccinations: Immunomodulatory effect is localized; systemic vaccine interference is unlikely.
‑ A randomized trial in JAMA Dermatology showed a 92 % complete clearance rate of actinic keratoses after 4 weeks of Aldara application versus 9 % for vehicle.
‑ Studies in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology confirm efficacy in sBCC with acceptable safety profile.
Comparison with Blackmores Conceive Well Gold
Aldara Cream treats cutaneous neoplastic and viral lesions via immune activation. Blackmores Conceive Well Gold addresses preconception nutrition and fertility. Both may be part of a broader women’s health plan, ensuring dermatologic conditions are managed before conception and supportive nutrition is optimized.
FAQs – Aldara Cream (Imiquimod)
Q1. How quickly will my skin clear?
A: Lesion clearance typically observed 2–6 weeks post‑treatment, depending on indication.
Q2. Can I apply to broken skin?
A: No. Only intact skin at lesion site; avoid open wounds or eczema.
Q3. Is pain normal during treatment?
A: Mild to moderate discomfort (burning, stinging) is expected and indicates immune activation.

Q4. Can I use moisturizers?
A: Yes, apply non‑medicated moisturizer 2 hours before or after Aldara if dryness is severe.

Q5. What if I miss a dose?
A: Resume regular schedule; do not double applications.

Q6. Will treatment leave scars?
A: Most local reactions resolve without scarring; severe ulceration is rare if instructions followed.

Q7. Can I shave over treated skin?
A: Wait until treatment course is complete and skin has healed.
Rook’s Textbook of Dermatology endorses imiquimod as first‑line topical therapy for superficial BCC when surgery is not preferred.
Cochrane Review (2014): Validates imiquimod’s efficacy for actinic keratosis and genital warts.
European Medicines Agency (EMA): Approved Aldara based on pivotal Phase III trials demonstrating safety and durability of response.
Aldara Cream, Imiquimod 5%, Topical Immunomodulator, Actinic Keratosis Treatment, Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma, Genital Warts Cream, TLR‑7 Agonist, Non‑Surgical Skin Therapy, Prescription Dermatology, EZ Chemist