ALDARA TREATMENT
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Aldara is a skin cream proven to be active against early forms of skin cancer and premalignant disease, such as superficial basal cell carcinoma and actinic (solar) keratoses. It is an immune response modifier and works by stimulating a localised immune response against abnormal cells.
How often you use the cream will depend on the condition that is being treated. Basal cell carcinoma (superficial types) are treated five nights a week (i.e. weekdays) for 6 to 8 weeks. Actinic keratoses are treated three nights a week (e.g. Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for 4 weeks, with a repeated treatment after one month if necessary. The cream should be applied before you go to bed, with a clean fingertip. Apply a thin film of Aldara cream to the affected area and rub in the cream until it vanishes (this helps to prevent contamination of skin near the treatment site). Wash your hands after application. Avoid contact with other skin. About 8 hours after applying Aldara cream, carefully wash the treated skin with mild soap and water, to remove remaining traces of Aldara cream. Avoid further spreading of the cream by washing flannels after each use, or use disposable tissues or cotton wool.Flamazine cream
You may develop flu-like symptoms, such as fever (high temperature), swollen lymph nodes, aches and generally feeling unwell. You may need additional rest if these symptoms develop and paracetamol can be helpful.
Your skin is likely to become red, swollen and sore at the site of application within 5 days of starting treatment. Your skin may peel, crack, blister and then scab. You may also experience itching, burning or stinging. If you develop weepy skin or an open wound, there is a risk that this may become infected. If you are concerned that your wound is infected please see your doctor. Aldara takes time to be effective. The skin reaction tends to be worst in the third week of application. Inflammation is a good sign, as it shows the cream is working. Generally the more intense the inflammation the better the end result. The surrounding skin may also become inflamed, but this will settle when you stop using the cream. Skin redness may take up to 4 weeks to subside (after stopping treatment).
If your skin becomes too uncomfortable, take a rest week off treatment until the effects have become better, then restart treatment. If your skin becomes too sore, it may be best to use the cream every other week. You can do this without speaking to your doctor. Rarely ulceration (an open skin wound) may occur. The risk of this is highest on the legs. If the inflammation or ulceration is severe, it can cause a change to your skin pigment, making it lighter or darker.