Imiquimod

Common side effects include:

• Skin reddening, swelling and flakiness
• These reactions are normal as they are signs of your immune system fighting the abnormal cells. Even if these symptoms are not present, the medication may still be working.
• Formation of crust during healing
• Itching
• Burning sensation
• Stinging
• Lighter skin colour on the warts or around the warts

Should the skin reactions become too uncomfortable, remove the cream by washing with mild soap and water. Take a short break of 3 to 4 days before continuing it again. If any side effects persist or are severe, please consult your doctor.

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Flu-like symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, aches and pains, mild fever and may generally feel unwell

For genital or perianal warts

• Vaginal pain or swelling
• Difficulty passing urine
• Severe tightness, swelling or skin tearing

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

• Avoid contact with the eyes, lips and nostrils.
• Imiquimod cream administration is not recommended until the treatment area has healed from any previous drug or surgical treatment.
• The treatment area should NOT be wrapped or covered with occlusive dressing.
• For patients using it for external genital and perianal warts:
• Sexual contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin.
• Imiquimod cream may weaken condoms and vaginal diaphragms, thus concurrent use is not recommended.
• Not to be used in pregnant women. 

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.