Tag: Aldara

Approximately 50% of patients with actinic keratosis (AK) achieve complete clearance after treatment with imiquimod 5% cream [1.2.1]. This article explores the question: how long does it take imiquimod to work for its various approved uses?

According to research, imiquimod is a topical medication and potent immune response modifier that triggers the release of immune-activating chemicals called cytokines in the skin to attack abnormal cells. This process is the core of what imiquimod does to your body to clear viral infections and malignant skin lesions.

With a prevalence that can reach over 14% in individuals 80 years or older, actinic keratosis is a common condition treated by imiquimod [1.6.4]. This guide details how to apply imiquimod topical cream for effective and safe treatment of prescribed skin conditions.

Using Aldara (imiquimod) more frequently than prescribed, such as every day, significantly increases the risk of severe local skin reactions and systemic side effects. This topical medication, an immune response modifier, is not meant for daily application for most conditions, and altering the prescribed regimen can lead to an exaggerated inflammatory response.

In clinical studies, Aldara cleared superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) in 75% of treated individuals. So, **how does Aldara cream work**? Instead of directly destroying abnormal cells like many topical treatments, Aldara harnesses and amplifies the body's own localized immune response.