Health Information

Imiquimod

What To Think About

Wash your hands after applying imiquimod cream, because it may cause skin irritation.

Avoid sexual contact while you are using imiquimod cream for genital warts. Wash the cream off of your skin before you have any sexual contact. The cream may weaken condoms and diaphragms. It also may irritate your partner's skin or may rub off during sex.

Taking medicine

Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.

There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.

Advice for women

If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or trying to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.

Checkups

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you understand this medication.

By:	Reference Healthwise Staff	Last Revised: June 21, 2012
Medical Review:	Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Reference Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology