Aldara Cream and its possible side effects while treating genital warts

Aldara cream is a topical medication (one which is applied to a definite or localized area of the body) used widely for treating Genital Warts (a sexually transmitted disease caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) which spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sex with an infected partner). Genital Warts occur as small flesh-colored bumps similar to cauliflowers in appearance. They can be found mostly in the genital areas as well as the throat and mouth. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) which has the potential to infect, almost 50 percent of men and women who are active sexually. Once can also get infected with Genital Warts upon exposure to contaminated medical equipment. At present, the treatment of genital warts involves surgical procedures like laser therapy, freezing and burning off the warts. The other and more economical alternative is the application of topical medications like aldara cream which has been found to be effective and user-friendly. Once prescribed by a doctor, a patient can apply it himself directly on the wart(s) three times a week, or as prescribed by the doctor. Despite its apparent benefits and advantages, Aldara cream is not without side effects, some of which can be quite unwanted. The most commonly seen side effects of generic aldara cream are skin reactions in the affected area including:

•Redness•Swelling•Sores, blisters or ulcers•Hard or thickened skin•Changes in skin color •Peeling of skin •Scabbing •Crusting•Itching•BurningApplication of aldara cream may also cause backache, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea and fungal infections. During the course of treatment with aldara cream, the skin in the affected area may appear to differ from normal skin. Some of the side effects like redness, swelling and sores at the affected site are common after application of aldara cream. Itching or burning is yet another reaction that you may experience. Usage of too much of the cream or wrong use may cause severe skin reactions – consult your doctor right away in either case. In some instances where the skin has been affected adversely, the use of aldara cream may have to be deferred until the skin heals.

Note: In case of extreme and persistent side effects, consult your doctor immediately.