Imiquimod

Imiquimod (Aldara), an imidazoquinolone, is a topically applied immune response modifier. It has antiviral and antitumor effects as demonstrated in animal models and in clinical human use. Although the precise mechanism of action is unknown, imiquimod appears to exert therapeutic effects through the local induction of cytokines, which activate innate and cell-mediated acquired immunity. The approved indication for imiquimod is treatment of external genital warts; however, imiquimod has been used to successfully treat common, plantar, and flat warts, molluscum contagiosum, herpes simplex virus infections, and leishmaniasis. It might also help treat respiratory infection caused by parainfluenza.