This valuable tool used predominantly for actinic keratoses and some skin cancers. (It may also be used for genital warts and molluscum.) Presently, in the U.S., it is available as Zyclara and as a generic (both are equivalent). We find it especially useful in the treatment of large superficial skin cancers.
How to Use. The following is taken from DermNet:
Wash your hands before and after applying imiquimod cream.
Pierce the sachet with a needle and squeeze out a tiny amount of cream onto your fingertip. Apply this to the affected areas.
Although the information on the packet states that the sachet is for single use, you could seal it using a paper clip or tape and store in a closed container to prevent the cream drying out.
Imiquimod may be used at any time of year, as it is not photosensitising. However, when outdoors, you should protect yourself from the sun with clothing and sunscreen as usual.
What to expect
Areas treated with imiquimod will be come inflamed. The effects include itching, burning, redness, ulceration (sores), scabbing, flaking and pain. These reactions indicate that the cream is likely to be effective - if there is no inflammation, imiquimod is unlikely to clear the lesions. An exaggerated response may clear the skin lesion sooner than expected - sometimes after as few as three or four applications. In some patients, surrounding untreated areas also become inflamed but this will settle when treatment is discontinued.
If you develop a severe reaction with black scabs and ulceration, stop applying the cream and arrange to see your doctor as soon as possible.
For more information see: DHC and DermNet.