Imiquad Cream is a prescription-strength topical immunomodulator designed for the targeted treatment of specific dermatological conditions. Its active ingredient, imiquimod, works by stimulating the body’s own immune response to combat abnormal skin cells and viral infections. This cream is formulated for precision application, ensuring focused action with minimal systemic absorption. Healthcare providers recommend it for its efficacy in managing both benign and pre-malignant skin lesions, offering a non-invasive therapeutic option.

Features

• Contains 5% imiquimod as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in single-use packets or multi-use tubes for patient convenience
• White-to-light yellow oil-in-water emulsion base for smooth application
• Designed for topical use only; not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal administration
• Typically supplied in 250 mg single-use packets or 12.5 g tubes

Benefits

• Activates local immune response to target and eliminate abnormal skin cells
• Provides a non-surgical treatment alternative for certain skin conditions
• Reduces recurrence rates when used as directed under medical supervision
• Minimizes scarring compared to invasive procedures like excision or cryotherapy
• Convenient at-home application with clear dosing schedules
• Supported by clinical studies demonstrating high clearance rates

Common use

Imiquad Cream is primarily indicated for the topical treatment of:

• Actinic keratosis on the face and scalp in immunocompetent adults
• Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) in immunocompetent adults, with tumors maximum 2.0 cm in diameter located on the trunk, neck, or extremities (excluding hands and feet)
• External genital and perianal warts (condylomata acuminata) in adults

Dosage and direction

Apply Imiquad Cream to the affected area as follows:

• For actinic keratosis: Apply to the affected area once daily, 2 times per week (such as Monday and Thursday) for a full 16 weeks. Apply prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on the skin for approximately 8 hours.
• For superficial basal cell carcinoma: Apply 5 times per week (such as Monday through Friday) for 6 weeks. Apply prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on the skin for approximately 8 hours.
• For external genital warts: Apply 3 times per week (such as Monday, Wednesday, Friday) until total clearance or for a maximum of 16 weeks. Apply prior to normal sleeping hours and leave on the skin for 6-10 hours. Wash hands before and after application. Use sufficient cream to cover the treatment area, but not so much that it causes excessive runoff.

Precautions

• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and nostrils.
• Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin.
• Sexual contact should be avoided while the cream is on the skin.
• The treatment area should not be covered with occlusive dressings unless advised by a physician.
• Sun exposure should be minimized during treatment, and sunscreen should be used.
• Not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
• Use with caution in patients with autoimmune disorders or those taking immunosuppressive therapy.

Contraindications

Imiquad Cream is contraindicated in:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to imiquimod or any component of the formulation
• Individuals with a history of severe local inflammatory reactions to previous imiquimod therapy
• Patients with congenital or acquired immunodeficiencies
• Those with widespread or metastatic skin cancer
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding (unless potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus/infant)

Possible side effect

Common local skin reactions include:

• Erythema (redness)
• Edema (swelling)
• Erosion/ulceration
• Flaking/scaling/dryness
• Scabbing/crusting
• Itching and burning at application site

Systemic side effects (less common) may include:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Fever
• Myalgia (muscle aches)
• Influenza-like symptoms
• Lymph node enlargement near treatment area

Most local reactions are mild to moderate and typically resolve within a few weeks after treatment cessation. Severe local reactions may require treatment interruption.

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with topical imiquimod. However:

• Concomitant use with other topical medications may increase skin irritation
• Use with other immunomodulators may potentiate immune responses
• No known interactions with systemically administered drugs, though caution is advised with drugs that affect immune function

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next application. Do not apply double the amount to make up for a missed dose. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not increase application frequency to compensate for missed doses.

Overdose

Topical overdose may result in severe local skin reactions including intense redness, swelling, and ulceration. Systemic overdose is unlikely due to minimal absorption. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Symptomatic and supportive care is recommended for ingestion.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F)
• Do not freeze
• Keep tube or packets tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Discard any unused cream 1 month after opening the tube

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Dosage and treatment duration should be determined by a physician based on individual patient factors. Actual product packaging and inserts contain the most current information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Imiquad Cream’s efficacy:

• In actinic keratosis trials, complete clearance rates ranged from 45-55% depending on treatment regimen
• For superficial basal cell carcinoma, histological clearance rates of 82% were observed at 12-week follow-up
• For external genital warts, complete clearance rates of 50-60% were achieved Patients typically report satisfaction with the non-invasive nature of treatment, though many note the local skin reactions can be significant during therapy. Most find the reactions manageable and acceptable given the treatment outcomes.