Definition
Imiquimod will be marketed in Europe under the trade name Aldara®. The active ingredient is a chemical compound that contains ammonia (amine) and can stimulate the immune response in the body. This property is used in the treatment of various skin diseases. Imiquimod is used particularly frequently for genital warts, but also for the clinical picture of actinic keratosis or superficial skin cancer (basalioma).
Effect / mechanism of action
Imiquimod stimulates the release of inflammatory mediators via “toll-like receptors” and thereby causes an inflammatory reaction in the body, which stimulates the immune system (cell-mediated specific immune response). Through this immune system activation, the body itself fights the disease process and thus Imiquimod can unfold its effect against viruses and tumors.
ApplicationIndication
Human papilloma viruses (HPV) are sexually transmitted and, in addition to the formation of genital warts, are also involved in the development of cervical cancer in both sexes. Long-standing infections with HPV can lead to this cancer in women. As a preventive measure, a vaccination has been recommended for young women for several years now, which is intended to prevent cervical cancer and infection with human papilloma viruses.
Imiquimod can be used if genital warts occur. Clinical studies show that Imiquimod shows promising efficacy in the treatment of precancerous lesions of cervical cancer. External genital warts on the labia can be treated with the cream.
Imiquimod can be introduced as a suppository for genital warts located further inside the labia. Changes caused by the HP virus can thus be detected and combated by the body. Imiquimod is approved for the treatment of basal cell carcinomas.
However, Imiquimod should only be used for small and superficial skin changes. In the case of extensive findings, which also extend deeper into the skin, surgery cannot be replaced by Imiquimod. Treatment with Imiquimod may result in visible skin changes, but these are a good sign of the body’s response to the therapy.
In the course of the therapy, these complaints subside. If this is not the case, you should contact your dermatologist. Imiquimod can be used in the therapy of basal cell carcinomas for 5 to 6 weeks five times a week before going to bed.