Imiquimod: A Review

Abstract

Background and Objective: Imiquimod (Aldara) is an immune response modifier used primarily to treat anogenital warts. Imiquimod induces cytokines and enhances cell-mediated cytolytic antiviral activity in vivo. It exhibits antiviral and antitumor effects; however, it does not exhibit direct antiviral effects in vitro. By inducing cytokines, such as interferon A, imiquimod stimulates both the innate immune response and the cellular arm of acquired immunity. Currently, imiquimod is approved for use in the treatment of external genital and perianal warts in adults. Conclusion: Beyond its established use, there are case reports and preliminary studies suggesting the effectiveness of imiquimod 5% cream in the treatment of nongenital human papillomavirus warts, molluscum contagiosum, actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Bowen's disease, nongenital human papillomavirus infection, and vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia.