Aldara (PDF)

Aldara

What is Aldara used for?

Aldara cream is used for the treatment of external genital warts. Aldara cream does not work for everyone. Aldara cream will not cure your genital warts, or stop new warts from forming.

How do I use Aldara cream?

Aldara cream should be used as prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner. Using too much Aldara cream or using it too often can cause severe skin reactions. Aldara cream is usually used once a day, three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The cream can be left on the skin for 7-10 hours. Treatment should continue until the warts are completely gone, or up to 16 weeks. If you do not notice a change in the warts after one month of treatment, notify your healthcare provider.

Applying the cream:

* Aldara cream should be applied right before bedtime
* Wash the area to be treated with mild soap and water. Allow the area to dry
* Open a new packet of Aldara cream and apply a thin layer of Aldara cream only to the affected area
* Do not get the Aldara cream in your eyes, or use internally
* Do not get the Aldara cream in your anus when using to treat perianal warts
* Do not get the Aldara cream in the opening of the vagina
* After applying the cream, wash your hands well
* Leave the cream on for 7-10 hours
* Wash the cream off completely at the end of the treatment period

Things to remember with any medication:

* Keep medications away from children.
* Store medications in a cool, dark, dry environment.
* Throw away medicine that is outdated.
* Take medicine as prescribed.

Written by the Women’s Group Practitioners Last Reviewed in November 2009
© Copyright 2009The Women’s Group PC 1